tesla model 3 safari

• Hybrids & EVs
• Motorsports

This Safari Themed Tesla Model 3 Is Wild

Tiger King, Joe Exotic, and Carole Baskin have the internet obsessed with all things safari themed. Combine that obsession with the passion of a Tesla owner, and you have one unique vehicle. Interestingly, it seems that car combination already does exist, and it’s for sale. Take a look at this safari-themed Tesla Model 3. It’s really pretty wild.

Tesla fans recently went wild on twitter over this “safari wrapped” Model 3 listing. The 2017 Tesla Model 3 was wrapped to represent a company that provides expert safari tours to Africa.

This is truly is one of a kind

Due to lockdown conditions, the owner has lowered the asking price due to the wrap not being able to be removed. The shop that applied it is also under ‘shelter-in-place’ order, and thus not able to remove the wrap. Under the wild animal wrap, the paint is pearl white. Price is adjusted down a generous $2,000 to account for the buyer to get the wrap removed and car detailed after removal.

I like how the seller was honest that they couldn’t remove the wrap to sell and lowered the price to reflect that. pic.twitter.com/j3VxKRXZOr — JonP (@JPUConn) April 26, 2020

Although you may consider leaving the wrap as is. You would be the pride of the neighborhood.

On the hood, two rhinos appear grazing and relaxing on the African plains.

More of the herd can be seen near the front badging.

Inside the vehicle, the safari theme continues. Both driver and passenger seatbacks feature curious meerkats.

Near the center cupholders, a custom console guides you with a scene of elephants.

Even the vehicle license plates are themed; YSAFARI. Perhaps the question is, ‘Why not safari?’

Interested in making this Model 3 yours? This unique listing was placed on the Facebook marketplace just this Sunday. We spoke with the owner and she confirmed it is still available.

This isn’t the only Tesla Model 3 that has a unique Safari theme

The safari theme continues, although, with a bit of a different angle, and seems to be very popular among Tesla fans. Although only a concept and not available for sale, Robb Report recently featured this Tesla Roadster Safari.

LA-based digital designer BradBuild designed was inspired by the most recent global pandemic. He told Robb Report “We are living in the apocalypse and definitely need to upgrade our driving situation.”

Solar panels have been fitted to the hood and sides, adding to the all-electric powertrain to extend the range. All-terrain tires and a vehicle lift give promise to a sense of off-roading. A steel roof rack has been added. It houses essential items for your journey and a spare tire.

At Age 80 Judge Judy Still Rules the Road

Some State Laws Actually Make It Easier for Kids to Steal Cars

UGA Quarterback Laughs About Owning a $300k Car

Alice Chase

The automotive community has always felt like home and being able to write about it is a dream job. My actual home is in Texas, with husband, two teenagers, and pets. Road trip travel is my passion and playlists are essential. You’ll often find me tweeting about #newmusicfriday.

• Hybrids & Electrics
• Sedans & Coupes
• Tips, Tricks & Trends
• Vehicle Reviews
• Motorsports

This Safari Themed Tesla Model 3 Is Wild

Tiger King, Joe Exotic, and Carole Baskin have the internet obsessed with all things safari themed. Combine that obsession with the passion of a Tesla owner, and you have one unique vehicle. Interestingly, it seems that car combination already does exist, and it’s for sale. Take a look at this safari-themed Tesla Model 3. It’s really pretty wild.

Tesla fans recently went wild on twitter over this “safari wrapped” Model 3 listing. The 2017 Tesla Model 3 was wrapped to represent a company that provides expert safari tours to Africa.

This is truly is one of a kind

Due to lockdown conditions, the owner has lowered the asking price due to the wrap not being able to be removed. The shop that applied it is also under ‘shelter-in-place’ order, and thus not able to remove the wrap. Under the wild animal wrap, the paint is pearl white. Price is adjusted down a generous $2,000 to account for the buyer to get the wrap removed and car detailed after removal.

I like how the seller was honest that they couldn’t remove the wrap to sell and lowered the price to reflect that. pic.twitter.com/j3VxKRXZOr — JonP (@JPUConn) April 26, 2020

Although you may consider leaving the wrap as is. You would be the pride of the neighborhood.

On the hood, two rhinos appear grazing and relaxing on the African plains.

More of the herd can be seen near the front badging.

Inside the vehicle, the safari theme continues. Both driver and passenger seatbacks feature curious meerkats.

Near the center cupholders, a custom console guides you with a scene of elephants.

Even the vehicle license plates are themed; YSAFARI. Perhaps the question is, ‘Why not safari?’

Interested in making this Model 3 yours? This unique listing was placed on the Facebook marketplace just this Sunday. We spoke with the owner and she confirmed it is still available.

This isn’t the only Tesla Model 3 that has a unique Safari theme

The safari theme continues, although, with a bit of a different angle, and seems to be very popular among Tesla fans. Although only a concept and not available for sale, Robb Report recently featured this Tesla Roadster Safari.

LA-based digital designer BradBuild designed was inspired by the most recent global pandemic. He told Robb Report “We are living in the apocalypse and definitely need to upgrade our driving situation.”

Solar panels have been fitted to the hood and sides, adding to the all-electric powertrain to extend the range. All-terrain tires and a vehicle lift give promise to a sense of off-roading. A steel roof rack has been added. It houses essential items for your journey and a spare tire.

How to Parallel Park With Step-by-Step Instructions

Only 70 Hyundai N Vision 74 Models Will Be Street-Legal

Top 5 Reddit Car Communities for You to Burn Hours of Free Time

Alice Chase

The automotive community has always felt like home and being able to write about it is a dream job. My actual home is in Texas, with husband, two teenagers, and pets. Road trip travel is my passion and playlists are essential. You’ll often find me tweeting about #newmusicfriday.

2022 Tesla Model 3

Search Used Listings

Enter your zip code to search used Model 3 listings in your area.

$ 28,758 - 34,789

Avg Price Paid

$ 46,990 - 62,990

Original MSRP

Advertisement

2022 Tesla Model 3 Review

Other Years:

U.S. News Rating

An extensive electric driving range and exhilarating performance help the 2022 Tesla Model 3 place in the top half of the luxury electric car class.

Lengthy range

Deft handling

Brisk acceleration

Upscale, modern cabin design

Distracting infotainment system

Small rear seats

Firmer ride than other luxury EVs

What's New for 2022

Increased range in some trims

Renamed base trim

Features and Specs

118-138 City / 107-126 Hwy

271 - 455 horsepower

Research & Ratings

Currently the Tesla Model 3 has a score of 8.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 34 pieces of research and data elements using various sources .

• Critics' Rating 9.2
• Performance 9.5
• Total Cost of Ownership N/A
• Interior 7.2

Best Luxury Electric Cars

2024 Lucid Air

2024 Tesla Model 3

2024 BMW i7

2022 Model 3 Photos

2022 Tesla Model 3 Overview

Is the tesla model 3 a good car.

Yes, the Tesla Model 3 is a good electric sedan. Few vehicles in the luxury electric car class can match its range, which tops out at around 358 miles. This EV has robust performance, with strong motors, quick acceleration, and spry handling. Inside, you’ll find an upscale cabin and a huge trunk. However, this Tesla has a firm ride and pinched rear seats, and its controls are overly reliant on the touch screen. Also, support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is absent.

Should I Buy the Tesla Model 3?

The Tesla Model 3 is a good sedan, but there are plenty of other appealing electric vehicles. The Mercedes-Benz EQS hatchback has similar battery range as the Tesla, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV has more passenger and cargo room than the Model 3. You could also consider other Tesla models, such as the Model S . On the other hand, if you aren't ready to make the jump to an electric model, you might be interested in the BMW 3 Series .

Find a 2022 Tesla Model 3 for sale near you »

Why You Can Trust Us: 33 Reviews Analyzed

Our goal is to make shopping for your next car as easy as possible. You'll find everything you need to know about this electric car in our comprehensive review. It combines concrete data like horsepower ratings, crash test ratings, and cargo space dimensions with 33 professional reviews.

This 2022 Model 3 review incorporates applicable research for all models in this generation, which launched for 2018.

U.S. News Best Cars has been ranking and reviewing vehicles since 2007, and our staff has more than 75 years of combined experience in the auto industry. To ensure our objectivity, we never accept expensive gifts from carmakers, and an outside firm manages the ads on our site.

2021 vs. 2022 Tesla Model 3: What's the Difference?

Instead of rolling out updates by model year like other automakers, Tesla releases over-the-air software updates to improve parts of its vehicles, such as features and electric range. However, we can make some approximations. For 2022, Tesla renames the Standard Range model to Rear-Wheel Drive and gives it a lithium-ion battery pack in place of a nickel-cobalt battery, boosting range from 263 miles to 272 miles. The Long Range also saw its range boosted by 5 miles.

Compare the 2021 and 2022 Model 3 »

Here are the key changes for the Model 3 since Tesla launched it as an all-new EV for 2018:

• 2022: increase in all-electric drive range and trims renamed
• 2021: exterior and interior styling refreshed; drive range increased
• 2020: drive range increased
• 2019: Standard Range Plus trim debuted

If you're considering an older model, be sure to read our 2019 Model 3 , 2020 Model 3 , and 2021 Model 3 reviews to help make your decision. Also, check out our Best New Car Deals and Best New Car Lease Deals pages to learn about savings and discounts you can find on new vehicles.

How Much is a 2022 Tesla Model 3?

The entry-level Model 3 has a base MSRP of $44,990, which is highly affordable for a luxury EV. Even the range-topping Performance, which retails for $58,990, undercuts the starting prices of other electric cars, like the Tesla Model S , by tens of thousands of dollars.

Can I Lease the Tesla Model 3 ?

Yes, Tesla offers lease options for its vehicles. Check with your local Tesla dealer for the latest details.

Tesla Model 3 Versus the Competition

Tesla model 3 vs. tesla model y.

The Tesla Model Y is essentially an SUV version of the Model 3. It has more cargo room, an optional third row of seats, and comparable driving range on a full charge. However, the Model Y is also more expensive, as its base trim retails for about the same price as the Model 3 Performance. Choosing between these Tesla models is a matter of preference, needs, and budget.

Compare the Model 3 and Model Y »

Tesla Model 3 vs. Polestar 2

The Polestar 2 is one of the only vehicles in the luxury electric car class that’s competitively priced with the Tesla Model 3. It has an advantage inside, with more overall cargo capacity, roomier rear seats, and a more intuitive infotainment system. On the other hand, the Tesla has sharper handling. While the two EVs have similar battery ranges in their base trims, the Tesla wins out here as well with its other variants. Either car would be a good choice.

Compare the Model 3 and Polestar 2 »

Compare the Model 3, Model Y, and Polestar 2 »

Model 3 Performance: Zip and Zoom

Model 3 motor.

Tesla does not use horsepower, kilowatt-hours, or gas-powered engine displacement to distinguish its models. Every trim has its own motor, and all of them are more than capable in daily driving. Acceleration comes quickly, both from a stop and when getting the sedan up to speed.

Model 3 MPGe

This Tesla has outstanding fuel efficiency. The Rear-Wheel Drive model earns an EPA-rated 138 MPG-equivalent in the city and 126 MPGe on the highway. Those figures fall to 134 and 126 MPGe with the Long Range and 118 and 107 MPGe with the Performance.

For more information, check out What Is MPGe?

What Is the Driving Range of the Model 3?

The EPA estimates that the Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive has a battery range of 272 miles. That’s the shortest range in this EV’s lineup, but it’s farther than you’ll get with most electric vehicles. The Performance has 315 miles of range, and the Long Range gets up to 358 miles.

How Do You Charge the Model 3?

This electric car has a standard 32-amp onboard charger and a 20-foot cord that can connect to a power outlet, and there’s an available adapter for connecting to a 240-volt outlet. A 48-amp onboard charger is available too.

Where Can I Charge the Model 3?

You can charge this EV at home using a 120- or 240-volt power outlet or Tesla’s available home charging station. Alternatively, you could use one of Tesla’s 20,000-plus Supercharger stations. You can use a public charging station too, but you’ll need an adapter. An adapter for J1772 charging stations is included, and an adapter for CHAdeMO stations is available.

For more information, read Your Guide to the Tesla Supercharger Network

How Long Does It Take to Charge the Model 3?

You can recharge this vehicle with a 120-volt household-style power outlet, but we don’t recommend it. Doing so will add roughly 3 miles of range per hour, and it can take several days to fully recharge the battery. Using a 240-volt outlet or Tesla’s Wall Connector reduces the time for a full charge to somewhere between 10 and 11.5 hours, depending on trim. Tesla’s Superchargers can restore 175 miles of range in 15 minutes.

How Long Will the Model 3 Battery Last?

Numerous conditions affect the life of a battery, making it tough to provide a firm answer for how long it will last. However, it is estimated that a Tesla battery can last for between 300,000 and 500,000 miles. To maximize battery life, Tesla recommends keeping it plugged in to charge when you’re not planning on driving.

Model 3 Ride and Handling

This Tesla model is fun to drive, with well-weighted steering and nimble handling. The brakes operate smoothly too. However, while the ride is usually comfortable, it can be a touch firm for a luxury car, as broken pavement can make it feel somewhat unsettled.

How Fast Is the Model 3?

The Rear-Wheel Drive model accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and has a top speed of 140 mph. The Long Range ups those figures to 4.2 seconds and 145 mph, and the Performance clocks in at a sports-sedan-worthy 3.1 seconds and 162 mph.

Is the Model 3 Available With All-Wheel Drive?

Yes. The Long Range and Performance come standard with Tesla’s dual-motor all-wheel-drive system.

Read more about performance »

Model 3 Interior: High-Tech, High-Quality

Model 3 interior quality.

The Tesla Model 3 has an elegant, understated cabin. The materials are nice, and everything is well-built.

Model 3 Infotainment, Bluetooth, and Navigation

The 15-inch touch screen controls virtually everything in this vehicle, including activating the windshield wipers and adjusting the air vents. It has clear graphics and is easy to read, but trawling through submenus can be distracting, especially while driving. Additionally, neither Apple CarPlay nor Android Auto is available.

• Standard infotainment features: a 15-inch touch screen, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hot spot, navigation, four USB ports, wireless device charging, and HD Radio
• Available infotainment features: a 14-speaker sound system
• Additional standard features: dual-zone automatic climate control and a panoramic glass roof

How Is the Model 3 Software Updated?

Tesla releases periodic, over-the-air updates for its vehicles.

Model 3 Cargo Space

The Tesla Model 3 has a total of 23 cubic feet of cargo space, which is plenty for a luxury electric car. This space is divided between the primary rear trunk, where most of the space is, and a small front trunk, or frunk, under the hood.

How Many People Does the Model 3 Seat?

Up to five people can sit in this Tesla. There’s plenty of space upfront, and the seats feel comfortable even after hours of driving. Critics have mixed reviews about the rear, with some saying space is adequate but others noting that it’s cramped.

Model 3 and Child Car Seats

This sedan has two complete sets of LATCH connectors for the rear outboard seats and a tether anchor for the rear middle seat. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave this LATCH system the second-highest rating of Acceptable for its ease of use because the lower anchors are set deeply in the seats.

Read more about interior »

Model 3 Reliability

Is the tesla model 3 reliable .

The 2022 Tesla Model 3 has a predicted reliability score of 75 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

Tesla Model 3 Warranty

Tesla backs the Model 3 with a four-year/50,000-mile new vehicle warranty. The standard battery is covered by an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty, and the long-range battery gets an eight-year/120,000-mile warranty.

Read more about reliability »

2022 Tesla Model 3 Safety

Score: 9.8/10, crash test results.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the 2022 Tesla Model 3 a Top Safety Pick+, the organization’s highest honor. This EV earned the highest rating of Good in all six crash tests. The Model 3 also received a Good rating for how well its headlights illuminate the road ahead.

The IIHS uses a different scale for grading collision avoidance features. This electric car received the highest rating of Superior for its standard front crash prevention systems.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave this car an overall safety rating of five out of five stars with five stars in the frontal crash, side crash, and rollover tests.

Safety Features

Standard driver assistance features:

• Front, side, and rear parking sensors
• Forward collision warning
• Forward automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind spot monitoring
• Surround-view parking camera system
• Lane departure warning and lane change alert
• Parallel park assist

Available driver assistance features:

• Full Self-Driving Capability (automatic lane change, automatic parking, stop sign and traffic light recognition, and Summon)

Model 3 Dimensions and Weight

The Tesla Model 3 is 15.4 feet long. Its curb weight ranges from 3,880 to 4,065 pounds.

Where Is the 2022 Tesla Model 3 Built?

Tesla builds the 2022 Model 3 in California.

Which Tesla Model 3 Model Is Right for Me?

Tesla makes the 2022 Model 3 in three trim levels: Rear-Wheel Drive, Performance, and Long Range. Formerly called the Standard Range Plus, the Rear-Wheel Drive has a single-motor rear-wheel-drive system. The other two trims upgrade to Tesla’s dual-motor all-wheel drive.

Features are largely identical between trims, so the main differences relate to performance and battery range. The RWD has 272 miles of range, the Performance has 315, and the Long Range gets up to 358. Shoppers concerned about range may want to consider the Long Range, but even the base trim is good for regular commutes.

In any trim, you can spend another $10,000 to get the Full Self-Driving Capability package. It adds features like automatic parking, traffic light and stop sign recognition, and Summon, which lets the car back in or out of a parking space without a driver in the vehicle. Despite the names of some of these features, the Model S is not capable of fully autonomous driving. The driver is still responsible for safe operation of the vehicle at all times.

Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive

The Model 3 RWD has a starting MSRP of $44,990. Standard equipment includes a 32-amp charger, a 15-inch touch screen, wireless device charging for two devices, four USB ports, Bluetooth, a glass roof, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Tesla’s Premium Connectivity is included for 30 days. It has navigation, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and support for video and music streaming.

Tesla’s Autopilot is standard too. Despite the name, it’s not an automated self-driving system, but it does bundle driver aids such as park assist, lane change assist, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, a surround-view parking camera system, blind spot monitoring, and sensors on all sides of the vehicle. Autopilot also helps steer and accelerate the EV within its lane.

The available Premium Interior adds a 14-speaker stereo and fog lights.

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

Retailing for $50,990, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range gains a larger 75-kWh battery pack and dual-motor all-wheel drive. It also has a 48-amp onboard charger.

Tesla Model 3 Performance

The Performance starts at $58,990. It has the swiftest acceleration in the lineup, with Tesla estimating that it can race from zero to 60 mph in as little as 3.1 seconds, with a top speed of 162 mph. As its name suggests, this trim has a few performance enhancements, such as a sport-tuned suspension and a carbon-fiber spoiler.

See 2022 Tesla Model 3 specs and trims »

The Final Call

The Tesla Model 3 distinguishes itself from other vehicles in our luxury electric car rankings by virtue of its extensive electric range, affordable base price, and high safety score. Furthermore, this Tesla has a minimalist but refined cabin, plenty of trunk space, sporty handling, and zippy acceleration. There are a few hiccups, such as its complex touch-screen infotainment system and tight back seat, but overall, this Tesla is an EV worth considering.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out comments from some of the reviews that drive our rankings and analysis.

• "The Model 3 has the Tesla virtues of excellent range, a premium high-tech interior, and outstanding performance, all in a reasonably affordable package." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "If you're in the market for an electric vehicle, the Model 3 is virtually unbeatable for the price." -- Edmunds
• "Among the more affordable options in the electric-vehicle marketplace, the 2021 Tesla Model 3 is without doubt the one with the most name recognition. It borrows some styling cues from the company's Model S sedan and Model X SUV, but goes its own way with a unique interior design and an all-glass roof. Acceleration is quick, and the Model 3's chassis is playful as well—especially the Performance model's, which receives a sportier suspension and a track driving mode. But EV buyers are more likely interested in driving range than speediness or handling, and the Model 3 delivers there too." -- Car and Driver (2021)

Other Years

Local inventory.

• 2023 Tesla Model 3 For Sale
• 2022 Tesla Model 3 For Sale
• 2021 Tesla Model 3 For Sale
• 2020 Tesla Model 3 For Sale
• 2019 Tesla Model 3 For Sale
• All Tesla Model 3 For Sale
• All Tesla For Sale

Car Payment Calculators

Use our tools to calculate monthly payments or figure out which cars you can afford.

U.S. News Best Cars Awards

• Best Cars for the Money
• Best Cars for Families
• Best Vehicle Brands

Model 3 Shoppers Should Also Consider

# 1 in Luxury Electric Cars

# 2 in Luxury Electric Cars

# 3 in Luxury Electric Cars

2024 BMW i4

# 4 in Luxury Electric Cars

2020 Tesla Model 3 Review

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

• Tesla prestige at a lower price
• Class-leading range, performance and handling
• More technologically advanced than rivals
• Supercharger network access for long-distance driving
• Touchscreen interface design can lead to driver distraction
• No Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support

What's new

• No major changes for the 2020 Model 3
• 2021 Model 3 will get more range plus other enhancements
• Part of the first Model 3 generation introduced for 2017

Now in its fourth model year, the Tesla Model 3 manages to be efficient, luxurious and fun to drive. For those reasons and more, the Tesla Model 3 is Edmunds' top-rated Luxury Electric Vehicle for 2020.

2020 Tesla Model 3 EV Insights

Estimated range based on age.

EV Battery Warranty

Ev tax credits & rebates.

Under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers taxpayers a Used Clean Vehicle Tax Credit equal to 30% of the sale price up to a maximum credit of $4,000 for the purchase of a used plug-in electric or hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. Beginning January 1, 2024, Clean Vehicle Tax Credits may be initiated and approved at the point of sale at participating dealerships registered with the IRS. Dealers will be responsible for submitting Clean Vehicle Tax Credit information to the IRS. Buyers are advised to obtain a copy of an IRS "time of sale" report, confirming it was submitted successfully by the dealer.

• Price cannot exceed $25,000.
• Need to verify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• Must be at least two model years older than the current calendar year in which the vehicle was purchased.
• Must be sold through a dealership, private sales not permitted.
• Not have already been transferred after August 16, 2022, to a qualified buyer.
• Must meet income eligibility, depending on modified adjusted gross income (AGI) and tax filing status.
• Must not be the first owner of the qualifying vehicle.
• Has not been allowed a credit under this section for any sale during the 3-year period ending on the date of the sale of such vehicle.
• Purchased for personal use, not a business, corporation or for resale.

To learn more, visit https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/used-clean-vehicle-credit

Otter Tail Power Co offers EV owners a rebate of up to $500 towards the installation and cost of a Level 2 charging station.

To qualify for this rebate, the customer and/or charging station must meet the following requirements:

• Receive electricity from Otter Tail Power Co.
• Have purchased or leased an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle.

To learn more, visit https://www.otpco.com/ways-to-save/programs/electric-vehicle-rate/

Cost to Drive

Am i ready for an ev.

You can configure a Model 3 to maximize what you want, whether it be a low price, long range or high performance. And in every iteration, the Model 3 gives you access to Tesla's proprietary Supercharger charging network and some of the best semi-automated driving assistance features around. Of course, the brand cachet the Tesla name carries in many parts of the country is probably worth something too.

The Model 3 has its foibles. The lack of hard buttons forces drivers to use the touchscreen to operate almost all vehicle functions. There is no compatibility with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, leaving Bluetooth as the only option to pair your phone. Build quality and long-term reliability also remain question marks, though by and large, consumer reviews on the Model 3 are very positive.

Put it all together and you're looking at the most fully realized affordable electric vehicle on the market. Tesla's habit of upgrading the vehicle's capabilities through over-the-air updates — often adding games and other fun features in the process — is icing on the cake. The Model 3 should warrant consideration not just from electric-vehicle shoppers but anyone looking for a break from the norm.

What's it like to live with the Model 3?

Edmunds' editorial team acquired and lived with a 2017 Tesla Model 3 Long Range for nearly two years, logging 24,000 miles. As an all new-design for Tesla, it had a few teething problems at first. But most of the issues were electronic in nature and were later sorted out via software updates. The 2020 Tesla Model 3 differs from our early long-term Model 3 by way of improved cabin materials and different powertrain options. It's the same generation, though, so many of our observations still apply. To learn more about the Tesla Model 3, check out our 2017 Tesla Model 3 Long Range coverage .

Performance

Range and efficiency, which model 3 does edmunds recommend, 2020 tesla model 3 models.

Be aware that Tesla updates the Model 3 on an ongoing basis rather than by model year, so what follows might not necessarily reflect the most current offering.

Standard features at the Standard Range Plus level include 250 miles of range, rear-wheel drive, a glass roof, power-adjustable front seats, a 15-inch touchscreen, a navigation system and Bluetooth. Autopilot, a safety suite with exterior cameras and adaptive cruise control with an assisted steering system, is also included.

A larger battery pack (good for 322 miles) and all-wheel drive come with the midlevel Long Range trim. You get a few more features with the Long Range, including a premium sound system. The biggest punch comes from the Performance trim. It uses the same battery and dual-motor layout as the Long Range, but it's tuned to deliver maximum thrills. Other upgraded equipment includes performance brakes and a lowered suspension.

For all Model 3s, Tesla offers a Full Self-Driving Capability option, which includes extra features such as automatic lane changes on the highway and summoning your car in a parking lot.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the used 2020 tesla model 3., trending topics in reviews.

• driving experience
• handling & steering
• acceleration
• sound system
• spaciousness
• steering wheel
• reliability & manufacturing quality
• maintenance & parts
• fuel efficiency
• climate control
• off-roading
• electrical system
• wheels & tires
• infotainment system

Most helpful consumer reviews

Car of the future, insanely amazing, wow... this is everything a car should be, amazing daily commuter car, 2020 tesla model 3 videos, 2020 tesla model 3: edmunds top rated ev | edmunds top rated awards 2021, 2020 model 3 highlights.

Our experts like the Model 3 models:

NHTSA Overall Rating

• Frontal Barrier Crash Rating Overall 5 / 5 Driver 5 / 5 Passenger 5 / 5
• Side Crash Rating Overall 5 / 5
• Side Barrier Rating Overall 5 / 5 Driver 5 / 5 Passenger 5 / 5
• Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings Front Seat 5 / 5 Back Seat 5 / 5
• Rollover Rollover 5 / 5 Dynamic Test Result No Tip Risk Of Rollover 6.6%
• Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test Good
• Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test Good
• Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original Good
• Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated Not Tested
• Side Impact Test – Original Good
• Side Impact Test – Updated Not Tested
• Roof Strength Test Good
• Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint Good

People who viewed this also viewed

Related used 2020 tesla model 3 info, vehicle reviews of used models.

• Audi RS 6 2021 Review
• Audi RS 3 2020 Review
• Audi R8 2021 Review
• Audi RS 5 2021 Review
• Audi RS 7 2021 Review

Popular new car reviews and ratings

• Lexus Is 350
• Porsche 911 GT3 RS
• Kia Kia Soul
• 2024 Rivian R1S News
• 2023 Corolla Cross
• Volvo E XC90
• Toyota Camry Hybrid
• Ford F-150 2023

Research other models of Buick

• Buick Envision 2023
• Oldsmobile Enclave
• 2023 Buick Encore GX
• Buick Envista
• 2023 Buick Enclave
• Buick Envision
• Buick Encore GX

Other models

• Used Hyundai Santa-Fe in Newbury Park, CA
• Used Hyundai Tiburon in Amityville, NY
• Used Chevrolet Colorado in Saint Paul, MN
• Used Jaguar Xk-Series in Yorba Linda, CA
• Used Lexus GX-460 in Cary, NC
• Used Cadillac Ats-V in Seattle, WA
• Used Chevrolet Suburban in Louisville, KY
• Used Infiniti Ex in Lagrange, GA
• Used Lexus LS-400 in Austin, TX
• Used Hummer H1-Alpha in Hamburg, NY

Join Edmunds

Receive pricing updates, shopping tips & more!

Tesla Model 3 Gets Rugged with Aftermarket Off-Road Package from Delta4x4

Safari Tesla? Safari Tesla.

JBehindtheWheel

jesus_behind_the_wheel

After a Norwegian client requested a lift kit so his Tesla Model 3 could handle Northern Europe's terrain better, German tuning company Delta4x4 has developed an off-road package that may put all those Safari 911 owners on notice.

Delta4x4 has been designing aftermarket off-road accessory concepts for off-road vehicles since 1980 and took this request as a challenge to create something both functional and visually appealing to Tesla owners. If Delta4x4 sounds familiar, you’ve probably seen their premium wheels fitted on Simone Giertz's “ Truckla ” that went viral last year.

The off-road package consists of a 35 mm body lift kit to raise the Model 3 and fit 8.5x18 inch Klassik B wheels wrapped in 245/45/18 all-terrain Cooper tires. The lift kit gives the Model 3 an additional 40 mm (1.6 inches) of ground clearance. That may not sound like much to us Yanks, who are used to seeing lift-kits from three-inch to the ridiculous on Jeeps and pickup trucks, but the Tesla Model 3 wasn’t designed with Moab in mind.

This off-road package gives the Tesla Model 3 a rugged look while providing drivers with an added sense of confidence when the weather gets bad. They may not be able to rock climb, but you’ll be able to have fun in the mud with all-wheel drive instant torque spinning a set of off-road tires.

According to Delta4x4 , their 35mm lift kit for the Tesla Model 3 costs $548 (480 Euros), plus the set of 18-inch Klassik B wheels that cost $2,857 (2500 Euros) not including painting or assembly if necessary. 

Beyond capability, this off-road package offers Tesla owners who want to modify their car a choice that doesn’t involve slamming it to the ground.

2024 Tesla Model 3: Enhanced Features And Competitive Pricing Revealed

T he 2024 Tesla Model 3 has been subject to a series of updates, marking a notable milestone in the evolution of this popular electric sedan. Among the changes, Tesla has implemented a $1000 price reduction for the Long Range variant, while maintaining the base price unchanged.

This adjustment places the entry point for the Model 3 range at $61,900 for the RWD version, representing a $4500 increase, and $70,900 for the Long Range, slightly lower than its previous launch price of $71,900. This fine-tuning reflects Tesla’s commitment to offering competitive pricing alongside enhanced features.

Visually, the refreshed Model 3 presents a refined front design with a simplified lower section, lending it a sleeker appearance. Furthermore, the rear of the vehicle has been updated with restyled tail lights, adding a touch of modernity to its aesthetic. Inside the cabin, significant improvements await, including a new screen layout and steering wheel design.

Gone are the traditional column stalks, replaced by capacitive touch buttons integrated into the wheel for a more streamlined control experience. Additionally, rear passengers now benefit from an upgraded 8.0-inch display panel, allowing for convenient media and climate control adjustments, along with the inclusion of USB-C ports and dedicated air vents.

Tesla enthusiasts eager to acquire the latest Model 3 can anticipate deliveries between April and June 2024, as the company aims to meet the growing demand for its cutting-edge electric vehicles.

Alongside the price adjustments and design enhancements, Tesla continues to prioritize safety with the Model 3, maintaining its five-star ANCAP rating. Standard safety features include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring, ensuring peace of mind for occupants on every journey.

For those seeking additional functionality, Tesla offers optional upgrades such as Enhanced Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability, empowering drivers with advanced driving assistance and autonomous capabilities. Moreover, customers have the flexibility to choose from a range of color options, with Pearl White Multi-Coat serving as the standard choice, complemented by various premium finishes available at different price points.

• Tesla’s Expansion Slows In Q1 Amidst Production Surplus
• Tesla Stock Declines After Falling Short on Q1 Delivery Targets

More From Forbes

Elon musk touts tesla master plan: $25,000 ‘model 2’ takes back seat to autonomy.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Tesla 'Model 2' taking a back seat?

Tesla CEO Elon Musk in a tweet on Saturday linked to the 2016 Master Plan, Part Deux saying “I wrote this 8 years ago.” It’s not clear what the implication of the tweet is but that plan puts a lot of emphasis on autonomous vehicles and puts little weight on low-cost vehicles (other than revisiting what was said in the original 2006 Master Plan ). Musk said on Friday that the Tesla “Robotaxi unveil” is on 8/8 . This is expected to be highly autonomous. ( The Master Plan, Part 3 focuses mostly on sustainable energy.)

Lower-cost vehicle below Model 3 necessary? In the 2016 post, Musk says: “A lower cost vehicle than the Model 3 is unlikely to be necessary, because of the third part of the plan described below.” In the “sharing” part of the plan Musk states that sharing “dramatically lowers the true cost of ownership to the point where almost anyone could own a Tesla.” At the end the post concludes: “So, in short, Master Plan, Part Deux is: Expand the electric vehicle product line to address all major segments / develop a self-driving capability that is 10X safer than manual via massive fleet learning / enable your car to make money for you when you aren't using it.” The closing statement also mentions solar roofs. Nothing is said specifically about a low-cost vehicle in the conclusion.

Morgan Stanley rethink? In a research note on Friday , Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas appears to reassess the future of the low-cost vehicle, often referred to as the Model 2. While asserting that the Model 2 is critical to growth, he concedes that Chinese electric vehicle makers are already making cheap EVs and that the Model 2 may not be the game changer that it seemed to be before. Reuters claimed in an article on Friday that Tesla TSLA had scrapped its low-cost car plans in the face of Chinese competition. Musk responded by saying: “Reuters is lying (again) .”

The Model 3 is pretty cheap already / Model Y is high volume: the “affordable car” mentioned in the original 2006 Master Plan could in fact apply to a Model 3 or even a Model Y today — with all the discounts and incentives that come with those cars. The Model 3 is being promoted on Tesla’s website at starting prices of just over $35,000 for the purchase of new vehicles in inventory. And if you lease the least expensive rear-wheel drive (RWD) $35,000 Model 3, a $7,500 incentive applies across the term of the lease. Also keep in mind that Tesla is on a price cutting tear at the moment that, combined with $7,500 incentive, makes the Model Y also increasingly inexpensive in the U.S. The Model Y is also turning out to be Tesla’s highest volume car to date.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

But wait...Musk and Tesla executives have talked about the low-cost vehicle recently: “We're very far along on our next-generation low-cost vehicle,” Musk said in the fourth quarter earnings call in January. “And this is really going to be profound, not just in the design of the vehicle itself, but in the design of the manufacturing system,” he said. The vehicle (or vehicles) will initially be made at the Gigafactory in Texas — where the Cybertruck is made — and later in Mexico and then other “locations around the world,” Musk said. Back in October, during the third quarter earnings conference call, Musk called the next-gen vehicle "more conventional" in order to “achieve a units-per-minute level that is unheard of in the auto industry.” He also described the vehicle as "utilitarian” which could be interpreted as meaning more basic than the typical Tesla to date. That said, a low-cost consumer vehicle could be taking a back seat to the Robotaxi in light of the August 8 announcement and Musk could be taking more of a wait-and-see stance.

The Tesla Global Electric Fleet as it appeared in the 'Master Plan, Part 3.'

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Skip to main content | Shop

• Vehicle Accessories
• View or Manage Order
• Order History
• Gift Card Balance
• United States English

North America

United states, deutschland, switzerland, united kingdom, middle-east, asia/pacific, new zealand.

2017-2023 | Model 3 Carbon Fiber Spoiler

Retail Price: $400

Please select a size

Please select a Wall Connector order or product

We will send you an email when the item is restocked

Improve high-speed stability by adding the Model 3 Carbon Fiber Spoiler to your trunk lid. Made from lightweight, cross-woven carbon fiber with a matte epoxy finish.

• 1x carbon fiber spoiler

Note: Compatible with Model 3 vehicles Produced in 2017-2023. Price includes shipment to your preferred Tesla Service Center and installation. This item is non-refundable once installed. For additional questions about scheduling your Service appointment, visit  Shop FAQ .

Tesla’s New Model 3 Ludicrous Got a Ridiculously Sleek Makeover

An upgrade in both power and looks.

It may not be as head-turning as the Cybertruck , but the performance of the version of Tesla’s Model 3 is looking sleek.

Images of Tesla’s performance-oriented Model 3 are making the rounds after Tesla held a private event in Malibu, California. While we first saw the upcoming EV still under wraps , eventually we got a full view of what’s expected to be the upgraded Model 3. We’re unsure if Tesla will bring back the Ludicrous branding or stick with the Plaid label for its upcoming EV, but it’s fitting either way.

This performance version of the Model 3 comes a few months after Tesla did a much-needed refresh on its entry-level EV . Now that the Model 3 is expected to see an official reveal of its Ludicrous version very soon, we’re wondering when Tesla will put out a refresh of its equally popular Model Y .

Absurd Acceleration

With no official announcement, we still don’t know what makes this EV the performance trim of the Model 3. According to BooDev on X, the Model 3 Ludicrous could get from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. That would be a faster acceleration than Porsche’s latest top-end Macan EV , while likely being a fraction of the cost.

Thanks to some previously leaked documents , we know that the Model 3 performance trim could pump out up to 618 horsepower thanks to an upgraded rear motor. As for the exterior, the images show a Model 3 that’s revamped with a new front end, new wheels, and what looks like a carbon fiber spoiler at the back.

Tesla made some cosmetic changes to its performance edition Model 3.

An Imminent Reveal

Going off the images from the Malibu event, the performance version of the Model 3 looks like it’s just about ready for its debut. Tesla has started to roll out the EV at some of its dealerships, so we can only assume that more details are on the way.

As for pricing, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a steep markup with this performance model when compared to the base model rear-wheel-drive Model 3 which starts at $38,990. As pointed out by Sawyer Merritt , Tesla should try to keep the Model 3 performance edition under the $55,000 threshold to qualify it for federal tax credits but that could prove to be unrealistic.

This article was originally published on April 2, 2024

Tesla unveils new Sport Seats to absorb Model S Plaid’s insane power

Tesla has unveiled new Sport Seats for the Model S Plaid to absorb the electric supercar’s insane power better.

While it’s in the form of a family sedan, the Model S Plaid could easily pass as an electric supercar with its 1.99-second 0 to 60 mph acceleration.

That’s more power than anyone would need, but it is fun.

Some Model S Plaid owners even like to take the fun to the racetrack. When cornering, you can really feel the Gs on the racetrack.

Tesla’s Model S seats are comfortable, but they are not designed for super-spirited driving, which the rest of the vehicle enables.

Today, Tesla decided to address the issue with the release of new Sports Seats:

New Model S Plaid Sport Seats If you know what high-G cornering means, these seats are for you – Increased lateral support – Modular seat architecture for comfort & support, plus same 12-way power adjust, heating & ventilation – High performance suede for increased grip &… pic.twitter.com/Up7fCVo6SL — Tesla (@Tesla) April 12, 2024

They obviously feature much more pronounced side support. Here are the main features of the seats:

• Increased lateral support
• Modular seat architecture for comfort & support, plus same 12-way power adjust, heating & ventilation
• High performance suede for increased grip & reduced weight

Here’s another look at the new seats:

Top comment by ElectricAll

Why? Where's the luxury appointments, the tactile controls, the newly styled exterior? Where's the new model? Why is Tesla such a slow to develope company?

Oh well Tesla was relevant for a couple of years, I guess their run is over.

The seats are now standard for the $90,000 Model S Plaid and included on all cars built since the beginning of the month.

Electrek’s Take

We had known new sports seats were coming to the new Model 3 Performance , which is expected to be unveiled any day, but it makes sense that the Model S Plaid would get them first.

The vehicle’s level of performance deserves sports seats.

I am surprised that Tesla is making it standard rather than a paid option, but we’ll take it.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Tesla is a transportation and energy company. It…

Fred is the Editor in Chief and Main Writer at Electrek.

You can send tips on Twitter (DMs open) or via email: [email protected]

Through Zalkon.com, you can check out Fred’s portfolio and get monthly green stock investment ideas.

Fred Lambert's favorite gear

Zalkon Green Stock Ideas

Get interesting investment ideas by Fred Lambert

ChargePoint Home charger

ChargePoint Home WiFi Enabled Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger

• What's My Car Worth?
• Buyer's Guide

An Off-Road-Modified Tesla Model 3 Tackles the Mojave Road

A team of YouTubers find the limits of their Tesla in the desert.

The Mojave Road is a 147-mile off-road route that starts at the Colorado River just south of Laughlin, Nevada, and ends near the Cajon Pass in California. Historically, beginning in late-prehistoric times, its trails represented a trade route connecting inland and coastal Native American tribes. Later it became a path along the westward expansion, a challenging desert crossing. Today it's a popular off-road route, one we attempted to travel in a home-built, safari-style Tesla Model 3 . We felt like pioneers—though we might've been better off in a covered wagon.

Ethan Schlussler and Edwin Olding run Grind Hard Plumbing Co., a gearhead collective with a popular YouTube channel featuring their zany mechanical projects. The off-road Tesla started as a salvaged 2020 Model 3 Dual Motor Long Range with front-end damage. The guys documented the process of getting it running—with help from Tesla guru Rich Benoit—in a series of videos. The short version: They cut off part of the damaged front structure, replaced the plastic bumpers with steel tubes, mounted a 12,000-pound-capacity winch, relocated the heat exchangers to the frunk, cut out a section of the hood, installed aftermarket lighting, raised the ride height by two inches, removed the front anti-roll bar, added front-wheel spacers, and fitted Falken Wildpeak A/T3W tires—all under the watchful gaze of a life-size Elon Musk cardboard cutout. Rock sliders were added for extra protection, and the rear bumper and part of the rear floor were removed for a better departure angle. A floor patch was made from an old street sign reading "Road maintenance ends." Fitting.

The National Park Service recommends giving yourself three days to travel the Mojave Road from start to finish. We weren't planning to take on the entire pass, but we figured we'd do an overnight or two along the way. Since the Model 3's roof is entirely glass, mounting a tent required some engineering. Schlussler and Olding fashioned a roof rack into the structure and attached a Go Fast Campers tent.

While a tent would carve into the Tesla's range on the highway, the big tires and added mass were more of a concern on the trail. Before the modifications, the car's EPA range was 322 miles, and as we set out into the desert, we had no real idea how far we'd get. But we did have an idea to flat-tow it behind our support AEV Jeep Gladiator for an hour on the dry lake bed to try to add some charge. And that might have worked—if we had made it that far.

The sun rose on our first day. Our planned route was simple: We would start near Afton Canyon just outside Barstow, California, head toward Laughlin, and run the trail in reverse, from west to east. The Mojave Road consists of bumpy straights comfortably navigated at 45 mph, rock obstacles to crawl over, and water crossings. With almost 500 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and the added ground clearance, the Tesla easily handled the terrain. "The ride quality in this thing is shockingly good," Schlussler said. After we aired down the tires to 20 psi, it had no trouble even in the sand, its ample power sending up magnificent sandy roostertails. The Tesla also held its own when it came to the rocky wash, ably keeping up with the Gladiator. We were impressed by how well it performed off-road, given the limited modifications to the Model 3 suspension.

Large-rock crawling did, however, require some accessory helpers. We were able to get up and over using traction boards—this obstacle necessitated locking the Gladiator's front differential. We spent most of the morning in Afton Canyon and had gone a total of 10 miles when we got to the large water crossing. In the summer the Mojave Road can be totally dry, but in the winter the water crossings can be deep enough to make it impassable. Schlussler was confident the water would be no threat to the Tesla, and he made it through with no issues. So he decided to do it again.

He took the second crossing faster, and the bow wave rose over the hood. The Tesla made it across, then lost all power and shut off. The car sat there, dripping and steaming. Schlussler looked at the bright side: "What's impressive, and convenient, is that we at least made it all the way out of the water before it died."

Initially, we figured the main safety fuse blew—it's intended to act as an automatic kill switch for the car's high-voltage system in the event of an accident or, uh, flooding. Later, we found a water-soaked main power module, which was what shut us down.

So we found the water-fording limits of a lifted Tesla Model 3, and we were surprised by its competence on dry land. By no means was it a practical off-roader, and this wasn't even a good idea. But it was not a complete failure, and it was wildly entertaining when it worked. Feeling a bit foolish but still high on the morning's fun, we towed out the Tesla with the Jeep and headed home. Maybe if we put the Tesla in a bowl of rice, everything will be okay.

Ethan and Edwin's Excellent Adventures

Building wild and silly vehicles is arguably the forte of Ethan Schlussler and Edwin Olding. The Idaho-based duo behind Grind Hard Plumbing Co. kicked off their YouTube channel in late 2017 and have been documenting their crazy creations ever since. While Schlussler and Olding initially gained fame for their 70-mph Barbie-themed Power Wheels Ford Mustang powered by a dirt-bike engine, the buds' constructions run the gamut. Their work includes other overpowered go-karts hiding under plastic Power Wheels bodies (left), and they also mess with cars, trucks, snowmobiles, and motorcycles. One project culminated in a lawn-care product powered by a Toyota-sourced 2JZ inline-six—a lawnmower with the heart of a Supra. Then there was a Wankel-powered tricycle made for drifting. They also converted an old BMW 3-series coupe into an off-road-ready pickup truck (right). Better yet, the guys happily hoon on their custom creations and film their antics. That special brand of vehicular wackiness has earned Grind Hard Plumbing Co. more than 1.3 million YouTube subscribers. —Greg Fink

.css-190qir1:before{background-color:#000000;color:#fff;left:0;width:50%;border:0 solid transparent;bottom:48%;height:0.125rem;content:'';position:absolute;z-index:-10;} Features .css-188buow:after{background-color:#000000;color:#fff;right:0;width:50%;border:0 solid transparent;bottom:48%;height:0.125rem;content:'';position:absolute;z-index:-10;}

Hyundai's Innovation Center Is Sci-Fi with Veggies

Electric Motorcycle Team Runs the San Felipe 250

VBox HD Lite Helped Us Be (Sort of) World Champs

What If You Never Charge Your Plug-In-Hybrid Car?

Does an EV Work as Well in Cold Weather?

The 2024 Lexus GX Is in a Class of Its Own

Cheapest New Hybrid Cars, SUVs, and Trucks of 2024

Ezra: I Wrote a Racing Movie to Destroy All Others

Elana Scherr: Ghostbusting, Collector-Car Style

Gas vs. Electric Cars: Pros and Cons of Each

The 2025 Volvo EX30 and the Scandinavian Flick

Things keep getting worse for Tesla

• Tesla might be facing another difficult quarter, Baird analysts warn.
• The firm said Tesla could face a 5% decline in sales compared to its second quarter in 2023.
• Last week, the carmaker reported its first year-over-year drop in sales since 2020.

Tesla could be hit with another difficult quarter after the company reported earlier this month that sales dropped year over year for the first time since 2020.

The electric-car maker could face a "messy" three months ahead, analysts from Baird said. Ben Kallo, an analyst at the financial-services firm, said in a note that he anticipates the automaker to deliver nearly 5% fewer cars in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year, MarketWatch reported.

"We think Q1 results will be messy due to several one-time items and continue to believe Q2 estimates are likely still high," Kallo wrote in the note.

The analyst said Baird anticipates Tesla will continue to face difficulty boosting sales in the months ahead because of high interest rates and declining demand for EVs.

"There is no denying that the demand environment has deteriorated," Kallo wrote.

Related stories

Despite the warning note about future delivery numbers, Baird removed Tesla from its Bearish Fresh Pick list, citing Elon Musk's announcement that Tesla will unveil its first robotaxi in August, as well as growth in the energy business. The company was originally put on the list after a Delaware judge struck down Musk's $55 billion pay package .

"We speculate Tesla likely unveils both a robotaxi and a $25k vehicle," Kallo wrote. "In the past Tesla shares have traded higher into these events and become a 'sell the news' event."

Musk announced that the company would show off its first robotaxi not long after Reuters published a report that said Tesla had abandoned plans for its $25,000 EV . In response, Musk wrote on X that "Reuters is lying (again)."

Last week, Tesla's first-quarter delivery numbers fell below Wall Street's estimates, dropping 20% from the previous quarter and over 8% year over year. At the time, Tesla blamed the decline on its production ramp for the refreshed Model 3, an arson attack at its Berlin factory, and supply-chain issues caused by the Yemeni Red Sea conflict. Tesla's stock dipped more than 5% on the day the delivery numbers were released and it's down around 30% year to date.

For his part, Musk has said Tesla is "between two major growth waves." But it's unclear when the automaker will step out of the slump.

The Tesla CEO has said " We dug our own grave " with the production ramp-up for the Cybertruck. Meanwhile, Musk is already making plans for what sounds like an ambitious second-generation Tesla Roadster .

A spokesperson for Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Correction: April 10, 2024 — An earlier version of this story misstated the timeframe of Tesla's drop in sales. The drop took place on a year-over-year basis, not to the lowest point since 2020.

Watch: How did Tesla's bulletproof Cybertruck become so expensive and so delayed?

• Main content

Former Tesla CEO says it is a 'shame' company is cancelling low-cost car plans

• Medium Text

• Company Tesla Inc Follow

Stay up to date with the latest news, trends and innovations that are driving the global automotive industry with the Reuters Auto File newsletter. Sign up here.

Reporting by Josh Ye; Writing by Anne Marie Roantree; Editing by Tom Hogue and Christopher Cushing

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Business Chevron

U.S. Steel shareholders approve $14.9 bln buyout by Nippon Steel

U.S. Steel shareholders on Friday approved its proposed $14.9 billion acquisition by Japan's Nippon Steel , taking the merger one step closer to completion even as political opposition to the deal mounts.

Watch CBS News

Tesla sales drop as competition in the electric vehicle market heats up

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

April 2, 2024 / 1:01 PM EDT / CBS News

Tesla sales fell sharply last quarter as competition in the electric vehicle market increased worldwide and price cuts the company enacted months ago failed to entice more buyers.

The Austin, Texas, company owned by Elon Musk,  said Tuesday it delivered 386,810 vehicles from January through March, almost 9% below the 423,000 it sold during the same period last year. The company blamed the decline in part on phasing in an updated version of the Model 3 sedan at its Fremont, California factory. Plant shutdowns due to shipping diversions in the Red Sea, and an arson attack that knocked out power to its German factory also caused fewer deliveries, it said. 

Last year, Tesla dramatically lowered prices by up to $20,000 for some models. In March, it temporarily knocked $1,000 off the Model Y, its top-selling vehicle. The reductions cut into the company's profit margins, which spooked investors.

The drop in Tesla's sales marks the first time its number of vehicle deliveries has fallen since 2020, the Wall Street Journal  reported . The company's poor performance last quarter "was an unmitigated disaster that is hard to explain away," Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives said Tuesday.

In its letter to investors in January, Tesla predicted "notably lower" sales growth this year. The company added that it's between two big growth waves — one from global expansion of the Models 3 and Y; and one from the Model 2, a new smaller and less expensive vehicle.

"For Musk, this is a fork-in-the-road time to get Tesla through this turbulent period, otherwise troubling days could be ahead," Ives said. "With the ongoing debacle around margins, production and ongoing macro events, Musk will need to quickly take the reins back in to regain confidence in the eyes of Wall Street with a big few quarters ahead."

Automakers around the globe have indeed rolled out EVs aimed at competing with the likes of Tesla's Model Y and Cybertruck. As more Americans grow curious about owning EVs , companies like Ford and General Motors are investing billions of dollars to produce vehicles that are less expensive than Tesla cars. Between 2018 and 2020, Tesla accounted for 80% of EV sales in the U.S., but that figure fell to 55% in 2023, according to Cox Automotive.

A record 1.2 million EVs were sold in the U.S. last year, according to Cox data. A semiconductor chip shortage three years ago kept some major automakers from running their EV factories at full capacity, but those woes have dissipated and companies are starting to rev up production, auto experts said. 

During the quarter, Tesla lost production time in Germany after what is suspected to have been an arson attack cut its power supply. U.S. production was slowed by an upgrade to the Model 3, and Ives estimated that Tesla's China sales slid 3% to 4% during the period.

Deliveries of the Models 3 and Y, which are by far Tesla's top sellers, fell 10.3% year over year to 369,783. Sales of the company's other models, the X and S and the new Cybertruck, rose almost 60% to 17,027. Tesla produced 10% more vehicles than it sold during the first quarter.

—The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

• Consumer News
• Electric Vehicles
• Electric Cars

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

More from CBS News

Inflation is sticking around. Here's what that means for your money.

Inflation runs hot for a third straight month, led by by gas and rent

Inflation's rising. Here's how debt relief can help.

Costco now sells up to $200 million a month in gold and silver

Tesla slashes Model Y inventory prices by as much as $7,000

Tesla is dropping prices of unsold Model Y SUVs in the U.S. by thousands of dollars in an attempt to clear out an unprecedented backlog of inventory.

Many long-range and performance Model Ys are now selling for $5,000 less than their original price, while rear-wheel drive versions are seeing even bigger cuts of more than $7,000.

The discounts come as Tesla once again made far more vehicles than it sold in the last quarter. The company built 433,371 vehicles in the first quarter but only shipped 386,810, likely adding more than 40,000 EVs to its inventory glut. (Some of those vehicles were likely in transit, though Tesla didn’t say how many.) The company has built more cars than it shipped in seven of the last eight quarters, Bloomberg News noted Friday.

In January, Tesla warned sales growth could be “notably lower” in 2024 compared to previous years — a trend that has bothered every player in the market from big automakers like Ford to struggling upstarts like Lucid .

Tesla went through a typical end-of-quarter push to deliver as many cars as it could over the last few weeks, with lead designer Franz von Holzhausen once again pitching in to get them out the door in the final days . But Tesla also tried to boost sales in other ways. It announced a $1,000 price hike was coming to the Model Y, its most popular vehicle, on April 1. Tesla CEO Elon Musk also started mandating demos of the company’s advanced driver assistance system to all potential buyers . That software package costs $12,000 and can be a huge boost to the profit Tesla makes on a vehicle.

Musk has more or less admitted that Tesla has had to work harder to drum up demand for its vehicles lately. He has largely blamed the struggle on high interest rates , all while his company dramatically cut prices on the Model Y and Model 3 throughout 2023.