Tesla Adds Long Range RWD Model 3 Variant

Overseas, there’s a new addition to the Tesla Model 3 line-up, an extended range rear-drive variant. It is thought to use the same battery pack as that in the Model Y Long Range RWD. Neither is available here as yet.

The latest addition to the Model 3 line-up is sure to excite those with touring aspirations. For it is the longest-ranged iteration of the electric saloon yet, offering up to 700km per charge. 

That’s more than the 650km range of its Polestar 2 rival. It also makes it amongst the most far flung of any premium model, up there with the range of the Mercedes-Benz EQS. Tesla reckons it has the best price-to-range ratio of any electric vehicle on the market today.

It also happens to be the most efficient Tesla model yet, and one of the most efficient period. Its energy use figure is a claimed 12.5kWh/100km.

Tesla has not yet confirmed the actual capacity of the battery in the new variant. However, it is thought to have adopted the same pack as that in the new Model Y Long Range RWD (600km of range). What motor it uses is also not clear but is probably the 180kW example like in the standard RWD model. 

The extra range in the new Model 3 is achieved through “continued engineering efforts focused on energy efficiency”.

The Long Range RWD model evidently comes with the same updates as the facelifted Model 3. So expect acoustic glass all around, uprated suspension bushings, and improved seals and sound-dampening materials. There’s also an eight-inch, second-row display, providing access to climate control for the rear passengers. Front occupants have ventilated seats, while all pews have heaters. 

If and when it arrives, expect the price to undercut that of the Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive variant, which currently sells for $73,900.