When Tesla recently introduced the refreshed Model 3 for international markets like Europe and China, keen-eyed enthusiasts quickly noticed a conspicuous absence from the lineup: the high-performance Model 3 variant. This omission raised questions and fueled speculations, especially since Tesla did not make any official mention of it in their press release. The online configurator for these markets offered only the single-motor RWD and the Long Range Dual Motor AWD versions, leaving prospective buyers in suspense. In certain regions, like Australia, even customers who had placed orders for the Model 3 Performance had their reservations abruptly canceled shortly after the facelifted Model 3’s sales launch.
Naturally, these developments gave rise to rumors suggesting that Tesla might discontinue the Model 3 Performance altogether. However, recent findings seem to indicate that this particular variant may still have a future, thanks to a European Type Certificate issued by the RDW, the Netherlands’ automotive authority.
This document, dated July and shared on the TFF Forum (as reported by Teslarati), provides compelling evidence not only of the Model 3 Performance’s return but also hints at some intriguing updates to its powertrain.
The key clue lies within the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). In particular, the eighth position of the VIN is marked with the letter “T,” a characteristic usually associated with the type of motor used in the vehicle. By contrast, the outgoing Model 3 Performance features an “L” in the same position, implying that the facelifted version may indeed feature a different motor configuration.
Tesla enthusiasts might recall that the “T” designation was previously used for the European Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid variants, both of which boast a tri-motor powertrain. However, it’s highly unlikely that the Model 3 Performance will adopt a tri-motor setup, as Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, explicitly ruled out this possibility during an earlier interview this year. Such a configuration would potentially outperform the Model S Plaid, which is contrary to the company’s plans.
A more plausible interpretation of the “T” in the VIN could point toward the Model 3 Performance adopting one of the Plaid rear motors. This adjustment would not only give owners of the Model 3 Performance a reason to boast but also enhance the vehicle’s overall performance.
As of now, this theory remains speculative, and the actual changes to the Model 3 Performance remain unknown. The most obvious areas for improvement would include the 0-60 mph acceleration time and the top speed. Yet, these enhancements won’t come without challenges, considering that the existing Model 3 Performance already accomplishes the 0-60 mph sprint in an impressive 3.1 seconds and achieves a top speed of 162 mph.
In conclusion, while Tesla’s decision to omit the Model 3 Performance from the initial lineup for certain international markets stirred curiosity, recent indications suggest that the high-performance variant may make a return with exciting powertrain upgrades. However, until Tesla provides official details, the specifics of these enhancements will remain a subject of anticipation and speculation among electric vehicle enthusiasts.
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