Tesla had earlier announced its entry into our market in 2021. To begin the operations, Tesla is likely to set up its office in Bangalore and depending on the response, it might start manufacturing its products here. Recognizing the exponential and rapid growth in the electric vehicle segment in India, Tesla aims to establish itself as the pioneer in the segment above the budget EV. It is likely to offer the customers above the Rs 30 lakh and under Rs 1 Crore price point, which is where the gap in the market currently exists. With time, Tesla might bring a wider range of its products to our market. For now, the first product likely to come to India is the Model 3 which has been spotted testing in India. Let us discuss what the Model 3 might come equipped with.
Also read: Challenges for Tesla in India – Autonomous Driving!
Tesla Model 3 – Exterior Highlights
In terms of exterior design, Teslas are very unique and distinct from other electric cars in the market. The front is typical Tesla in the sense that it features a curvy and flowing bonnet design for aerodynamic efficiency, sleek LED headlamps, sporty bumpers and an overall modern and minimalistic appearance. The sides accentuate the chunky alloy wheels with large wheel arches and a curvy shoulder line. The trademark pop-out door handle adds to the elegant side profile along with the swooping roofline to the back. The rear houses the split LED tail lamp set up along with the Tesla logo at the centre of the boot lid and a boot-mounted rear spoiler to aid the aerodynamic aspect of the vehicle. Overall, the Model 3 is a typical Tesla in the way it looks and can not be confused with anything else.
Also read: What is Tesla Auto Pilot and How it avoids accidents – Video!
Tesla Model 3 – Interiors, Features and Safety
The interiors of the Tesla Model 3 are anything but flashy. Tesla has adopted a completely minimalistic approach while designing the details inside the cabin. The entire dashboard is clutter-free and there is a massive 15-inch stand-alone touch screen at the centre of the dashboard which takes care of all the functions of the vehicle. Without much hardware at the front, a ton of space is liberated for the passengers. The centre console also houses space for wireless charging for two smartphones because of so much space on offer. Other features include Internet Radio and HD Streaming with Connectivity, Smart Navigation System, Completely Customisable Screen with all the relevant information according to your convenience, Climate Control Controls on the Screen, a Large Expansive Glass Roof with UV Protection, a 15-speaker Premium Audio System and a ton of other things. On the safety front, the Model 3 has a lengthy list of equipment which culminates into a 5-star safety rating for the car.
Also read: EV (Electric Cars) segments in India – Where will Tesla fit in?
Tesla Model 3 – Powertrains, Range and Expected Prices
The most affordable offering from Tesla is the Model 3, which might also be the one that comes to our shores first. The Tesla Model 3 comes in 3 engine options: a Single-motor variant and 2 Dual-motor variants. The entry-level single motor unit, Standard Range Plus is a rear-wheel-drive unit with a range of 423 km. The 0-100 kmph comes in under 6 sec. Then there are 2 Dual-motor configurations with an all-wheel-drive system. With a range of 568 km, the Long Range AWD can clock 0-100 kmph in under 4.5 sec. Lastly, for the performance enthusiasts, the Performance variant of the Model 3 does a 0-100 kmph in 3.1 sec. This variant also offers a decent range of 508 km. We expect it to cost around Rs 55 lakh, ex-showroom because it will be imported as a CBU.
Also read: 5 Best EV Design Concepts that are production ready – Kia, Hyundai, Honda, Tata!
Image Source: Car Crazy India
