Tesla is expected to launch its entry-level Model 3 electric sedan in India in the first half of 2021. The news confirmed by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has surprised many who were eagerly waiting to buy a sedan from Tesla in India.
Tesla Model 3 (US-spec) is available in three electric powertrain options: Standard Plus, Long Range, and Performance. The Standard Plus uses a rear-wheel drivetrain, the Long Range and Performance variants utilize a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. Tesla states that the efficiency of Model 3 variants is 423km, 568km, and 507km for resp. models. Its Performance variant is the top-spec model with the potential to do a 0-97 kmph sprint in 3.1 seconds maintaining a top speed of 261 kmph. Model 3 in India will be launched in Standard Plus variant, and the other two are expected to come later.
Tesla Model 3 comes loaded with features like a 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 14-speaker sound audio system, 12-way power-adjustable warm front seats, sunroof, and wireless charging ports. The Electric version comes with Tesla’s Autopilot feature. No information on whether these features will be available in the Indian model as well has been revealed by the company so far.
The exterior of Tesla Model 3
Most other Electric Vehicles that are readily available in the market are small hatchbacks, but Tesla’s Model 3 size is more like a compact luxury sedan similar to the BMW 3-series and the Audi A4.
The best part of the Tesla Model 3 is that it has been designed to keep the Safety of the passengers on priority. The all-metal body structure is an amalgamation of aluminum and steel, to add extra strength to every area.
Currently, the company is offering Model 3 with two-wheel design options—one with the 18-inch Aero wheels or 19-inch Sport wheels.
One of the Model 3’s unique features is the single piece of glass that starts from the middle of the roof and is used to the trunk lid, uninterrupted by the rear upper-roof cross brace.
Interior of Tesla Model 3
We may not be wrong if we say that Tesla Model 3’s interiors are just like other cars in the market. Simple Interior design with almost everything controlled by the monolithic touchscreen located in the center of the dashboard. This model has a low, flat floor that makes it spacious for passengers. The front seats are comfortable.
Passengers can fold 60/40/ split rear seats without any hassle to expand the space for the trunk. Seatbacks can fold flat, too, so that you can carry larger items as well. If you fold the rear, the car has so much capacity that it can carry as many as 15 carry-on suitcases. You will also see bins and cubbies inside the cabin.
Engine of Tesla Model 3
Unlike other electric vehicles, Tesla Model 3 attains speed smoothly without making much noise. The electric motor provides strong power from a stop. Its Long-range model sprinted from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The Performance model reaches 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Just like other Tesla models, Model 3 comes with its battery under the floor, which results in a low center of gravity. This feature helps it change the direction sharply and comfortably around corners. The steering wheel is well-weighted and comes with three different settings so that the driver can adjust its level to minimize the steering effort. The ride is elegant and not harsh; no noise of a gas-powered engine irritates you while driving.
Safety of Tesla Model 3
The Model 3 received a 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the parameters of crash-testing. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it amongst the Top Safety Pick+. The feature called Autopilot helps drivers during the long-hours journey. The driver-assist system is very impressive and supports functions like automatic lane changes. Other safety features like a Standard automated emergency braking system, Standard lane-departure warning, and Standard adaptive cruise control to drive on highways make this sedan, one of the best picks.
Pricing of Tesla Model 3
The expected price (ex-showroom) of the Tesla Model 3 is 60Lakhs. No pricing details of the on-road price of this car have been revealed by the manufacturer so far.
Conclusion
Tesla’s genuinely affordable Model 3 is a well-engineered electric vehicle. It rides smoothly on the road, satisfying the driver and the passengers. There’s a fresh simplicity to the design and comfort inside and out of the car, wherever it goes.
We may not say that it is perfect. Tesla’s Autopilot function is in progress. Initially, it may look appealing but the decision of putting everything on one screen can be distracting for the driver. Despite all of these, we still admit that Tesla’s Model 3 is worth buying the product. Let’s hope Tesla can produce enough of them to maintain demand and supply.
