The first export of made-in-China Model 3’s have arrived at their destination port in Zeebrugge, Belgium.
We first learned about Tesla’s intention to export vehicles made at Giga Shanghai last month. A customer in France noticed his invoice showed his Model 3 order was coming from China, and not Fremont, California.
Just days later on October 26, 2020 Tesla in China held a special ceremony at Giga Shanghai to celebrate the first batch of Model 3’s that were destined for Europe, estimated to be about 7,000.
Yesterday, one month later to the day, the cargo ship Toscana has arrived in Zeebrugge, Belgium. Interestingly, it is docked right next to the Grand Aurora ship that is loaded with refreshed 2021 Model 3’s from Fremont.
🚢Tesla-Ship Update🚢
🚢Toscana the 1st ever Tesla-Ship from China has arrived in Zeebrugge 🇧🇪 with #MIC #Model3 #SR+ 🚗 onboard for Europe🇪🇺
It's right next to Grand Aurora that is still unloading 2021 #Model3 🚗 from the US 🇺🇸. pic.twitter.com/NliDTYsHZP— 🚢Morten Grove – Tesla-Ships Tracker 🚢🕵️♂️(❤️) (@mortenlund89) November 26, 2020
With both ships unloading thousands of Tesla vehicles, Q4 2020 and Q1 2021 sales in Europe should be very good for the automaker.
The Giga Shanghai Model 3’s are the Standard Range Plus (SR+) variant and do not feature the new black trim and other updates announced for the refresh. They do however include the latest LFP batteries, which are cheaper to manufacture and provide more range.
The new batteries will also allow owners to charge to 100% without adversely affecting the life of the battery, according to Tesla Support in China.
