Evaluation of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance and its Market Position

1. Introduction

• This report evaluates the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance, focusing on its technical advancements, market positioning, and competition with other electric sports saloons.

2. Overview of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance

• 2-1. Introduction of the new Model 3 Performance

• The new Tesla Model 3 Performance has been announced as the flagship version of the Model 3, aiming to compete with other electric sports saloons like the Polestar 2 Performance Pack and the upcoming electric BMW M3. This model leverages the improved dynamics and refinement of the base Model 3 to create the most accomplished version yet. The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance features a dual-motor, all-wheel drive powertrain, with a motor on each axle, delivering 460bhp. This is a slight increase from the previous model, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 60mph in just 2.9 seconds and achieve a top speed of 163mph. The new version boasts significant hardware updates, including increased structural rigidity, uprated springs, new anti-roll bars, unique bushings, and adaptive damping for a customizable driving experience. Track Mode V3 has been integrated to optimize the performance parameters of the motors, suspension, powertrain cooling, regenerative braking, and stability systems.

• 2-2. Pricing and market availability

• The starting price for the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance in the UK is £59,990, making it approximately £10,000 cheaper than its closest competitor, the BMW i4 M50. The vehicle offers limited customization options, with one standard wheel option, two interior colors (black as standard, white for £1100), and five exterior paint options (white as standard, blue and black for £1300, and red and grey for £2000). Optional upgrades include 'Enhanced Autopilot' for £3400 and 'Full Self-Driving Capability' for £6800. The first deliveries are expected to begin in May. Despite enhancements in aerodynamics and overall efficiency, the Model 3 Performance delivers a WLTP range of 328 miles, which is 12 miles less than the previous model but still competitive with other vehicles in its class, such as the BMW i4 M50 which boasts a WLTP range of 318 miles.

3. Technical Specifications and Performance

• 3-1. Powertrain: Dual-motor, all-wheel drive

• The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance features a dual-motor, all-wheel drive powertrain. Each axle is equipped with its own motor, delivering a combined power output of 460bhp. This setup is designed to enhance traction and stability, contributing to the car's performance.

• 3-2. Performance metrics: 460bhp, 0-60mph in 2.9sec, 163mph top speed

• The latest iteration of the Tesla Model 3 Performance boasts impressive performance metrics. It produces 460bhp and can accelerate from 0 to 60mph in just 2.9 seconds. The top speed has been recorded at 163mph. These figures highlight the car's capability as a high-performance electric sports saloon.

• 3-3. Chassis and structural improvements

• Tesla has made several improvements to the chassis and overall structural integrity of the Model 3 Performance. The new model includes upgraded springs, new anti-roll bars, and unique bushings aimed at enhancing dynamics and driver engagement. These enhancements are designed to provide a more rigid structure and improved responsiveness during driving.

• 3-4. Adaptive damping and Track Mode V3

• The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance comes equipped with adaptive damping, which allows drivers to adjust the ride quality based on different driving conditions. Additionally, Tesla has introduced Track Mode V3, which fine-tunes various parameters such as motors, suspension, powertrain cooling, regenerative braking, and stability systems to optimize performance on the track.

• 3-5. Aerodynamic enhancements

• The new Model 3 Performance features several aerodynamic improvements. These include redesigned front and rear bumpers, added cooling ducts, a new rear diffuser section, and a carbon fiber lip spoiler. These enhancements are aimed at improving the car's aerodynamic efficiency and overall performance. The vehicle also comes with a single 20-inch forged 'Warp' wheel option wrapped in staggered performance tires, featuring removable aero elements.

4. Interior Features and Comfort

• 4-1. Enhanced Driver and Passenger Comfort

• Tesla emphasizes that the 2024 Model 3 Performance retains the refined, comfortable cabin seen in previous models. The new version offers more supportive sports seats that contribute to overall driver and passenger comfort. Additionally, the Model 3 Performance includes carbonfibre trim, enhancing the car's luxurious feel.

• 4-2. Sport Seats and Carbonfibre Trim

• The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance features sport seats designed to provide added support and comfort for both the driver and passengers. The seats, coupled with carbonfibre trim, distinguish it from the standard models and emphasize its performance-oriented nature.

• 4-3. Infotainment Displays and Ambient Lighting

• Both the front and rear of the 2024 Model 3 Performance are equipped with infotainment displays, ensuring that all occupants have access to entertainment and vehicle information. Additionally, new ambient lighting has been fitted throughout the cabin, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal and enhancing the driving experience.

5. Options and Customization

• 5-1. Wheel, interior, and exterior options

• The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance offers limited options for customization. There is a single standard 20-inch forged 'Warp' wheel option wrapped in staggered 'performance' tires with removable aero elements. Interior color choices include black as standard and white available for an additional £1,100. For the exterior, there are five paint options: white (standard), blue and black (both for £1,300), and red and grey (each for an additional £2,000).

• 5-2. Enhanced Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability options

• Buyers of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance can enhance their driving experience with optional advanced driving capabilities. The 'Enhanced Autopilot' option is available for £3,400, while the 'Full Self-Driving Capability' can be added for £6,800.

6. Comparison with Competitors

• 6-1. Comparison with Polestar 2 Performance Pack

• The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance is directly positioned to compete with electric sports saloons like the Polestar 2 Performance Pack. Tesla has made significant improvements in dynamics and refinement in this latest iteration. The Model 3 Performance utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel drive powertrain, delivering 460bhp and achieving 0-60mph in 2.9 seconds. In terms of chassis enhancements, Tesla has introduced bespoke hardware, including uprated springs, new anti-roll bars, unique bushings, and adaptive damping for enhanced dynamics and driver engagement. A new Track Mode V3 further optimizes performance by adjusting parameters for motors, suspension, powertrain cooling, regenerative braking, and stability systems.

• 6-2. Comparison with forthcoming electric BMW M3

• The forthcoming electric BMW M3 is set to be a significant competitor for the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance. Tesla's new model retains a dual-motor, all-wheel drive powertrain, and boasts a marginal power increase over its predecessor at 460bhp. Notably, it also features an acceleration time of 0-60mph in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 163mph. Structural rigidity has been a focus, with enhancements such as uprated springs and anti-roll bars designed to improve driver engagement. Additionally, Tesla's implementation of Track Mode V3 allows fine-tuning of the drive dynamics for performance-oriented use cases. Design-wise, the Model 3 Performance features aggressive new front and rear bumpers, improved aerodynamics, and new cooling ducts, aligning it aesthetically with the Model S Plaid.

• 6-3. Cost and efficiency comparison with BMW i4 M50

• The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance is priced starting from £59,990 in the UK, making it over £10,000 cheaper than the BMW i4 M50. While the Tesla Model 3 Performance offers a range of 328 miles (WLTP), the BMW i4 M50 offers a slightly lower range of 318 miles (WLTP) despite having a higher power output of 537bhp. Tesla's focus remains on delivering value with fewer customization options—offering limited wheel, interior, and exterior color choices while also providing 'Enhanced Autopilot' and 'Full Self-Driving Capability' at additional costs. The Model 3 Performance emphasizes a balance of performance, range, and price, presenting a strong value proposition in the electric sports saloon market.

7. Market Impact and Customer Reception

• 7-1. Customer interest and market expectations

• The release of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance has generated significant interest in the UK market. With a starting price of £59,990, it is positioned as a cost-effective alternative to its primary competitors, such as the BMW i4 M50 and the forthcoming electric BMW M3. The market is attentive to its advanced features including a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain delivering 460bhp, a 0-60mph acceleration time of 2.9 seconds, and a top speed of 163mph. Additionally, the enhancements in structural rigidity, adaptive damping, and the inclusion of Track Mode V3 are seen as improvements over the base model, drawing attention from potential buyers.

• 7-2. Initial customer experiences in the UK

• Early feedback from customers who have received the new Model 3 Performance in the UK highlights the vehicle's refined dynamics and increased driver engagement. These improvements are attributed to bespoke hardware upgrades such as uprated springs, new anti-roll bars, unique bushings, and adaptive damping. In terms of design, the new model features aggressive front and rear bumpers, improved aerodynamics, and additional cooling ducts. Although the quoted range of 328 miles (WLTP) is slightly lower than the previous model, the car's performance and hardware enhancements are resonating well with initial customers. The car’s interior retains a comfortable and refined feel with supportive sports seats and carbonfibre trim, and new amenities such as ambient lighting and dual infotainment displays for front and rear occupants.

8. Glossary

• 8-1. 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance [Vehicle]

• Tesla's latest iteration of the Model 3, designed to compete with high-performance electric sports saloons. Notable for its advanced dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, enhanced chassis rigidity, adaptive damping, improved driver engagement, and competitive pricing.

• 8-2. BMW i4 M50 [Vehicle]

• One of the primary competitors of the Tesla Model 3 Performance. Offers 537bhp and a range of 318 miles (WLTP). Slightly more expensive but presents strong performance and technological features.

• 8-3. Track Mode V3 [Technology]

• New feature in the Tesla Model 3 Performance that optimizes the car's performance by adjusting motor parameters, suspension, powertrain cooling, regenerative braking, and stability systems.

9. Conclusion

• The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance emerges as a leading electric sports saloon, offering notable enhancements in performance, comfort, and customization. While it faces strong competition, particularly from BMW, it holds competitive advantages in pricing and technology that are likely to appeal to a broad customer base.

10. Source Documents

• The new Tesla Model 3 Performance takes aim at the upcoming electric BMW M3 | evohttps://www.evo.co.uk/tesla/model-3/206712/the-new-tesla-model-3-performance-takes-aim-at-the-upcoming-electric-bmw-m3
• The new Tesla Model 3 Performance takes aim at the upcoming electric BMW M3 | evohttps://www.evo.co.uk/tesla/model-3/206712/the-new-tesla-model-3-performance-takes-aim-at-the-upcoming-electric-bmw-m3