Tesla's Model 3, once touted as a car for the masses, now has something to offer for those who are looking for a little more oomph.
Elon Musk, Tesla CEO, unveiled a faster and more powerful version of the Model 3 in a series of tweets over the weekend.
Musk took to Twitter on Saturday night, May 19, to reveal the specs and pricing for the highly anticipated dual-motor, all-wheel drive, and performance versions of the Model 3.
Tesla Model 3 Standard Dual Motor, All-Wheel Drive Variant
Although Musk did not specify the horsepower and torque, he revealed that the non-performance Model 3 variant with a dual-motor and all-wheel drive setup is capable of going from 0 to 60mph in 4.5 seconds, beating the rear-wheel-drive version's official 0-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds.
The variant, which costs an additional $5,000, will have a top speed of 140 mph and a driving range of 310 miles, which remains the same as the current extended-range, single-motor Tesla Model 3.
Cost of normal dual motor AWD option is $5k. Range is also 310 miles. Takes 0-60mph to 4.5 sec & top speed to 140 mph. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 20, 2018
Tesla Model 3 Performance Variant With Dual Motor, All-Wheel Drive
Musk also announced a second, more powerful "performance" version of the dual-motor, AWD Model 3. It does not only boast a 3.5 second 0-60 mph time, but also a top speed of 155-mph in addition to the same 310 miles of driving range.
Other features include 20-inch performance wheels, black-and-white interiors, and a carbon fiber spoiler. The performance model packs a lot of power but it doesn't come cheap. Musk revealed that the performance variant costs $78,000 including the cost of all options, wheels, paint, and others apart from Autopilot.
The Tesla CEO added that the performance variants costs about the same as the BMW M3, but is better in terms of speed and handling.
Tesla dual motor, all-wheel drive performance Model 3: 3.5 sec 0-60mph 155 mph Top Speed 310 mile Range — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 20, 2018
Dual-Motor Features And Delivery
Both versions of the all-electric sedans will feature an AC induction motor in the front, similar to Tesla's Model S and Model X, and a switched reluctance, partial permanent magnet motor in the rear with silicon carbide inverters. While one motor is optimized for performance, the other is for the range.
Musk also pointed out that the dual-motor Model 3 sedans will be able to function even on a single-motor should the need arise. Deliveries for the dual-motor Model 3 are expected to begin in July.
Tesla dual motor means there is a motor in front & a motor in rear. One is optimized for power & one for range. Car drives fine even if a motor breaks down. Helps ensure you make it to your destination & don’t get stuck on side of road in potentially unsafe conditions. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 20, 2018
