Tesla has filed to release a new Model 3 variant in China, called the Model 3+. This new version of the electric sedan is a Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) model and could become the automaker’s longest-range vehicle to date thanks to a high-density battery and efficient powertrain.
Unlike the standard RWD Model 3 sold in China, which uses a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery from CATL and offers a CLTC range of 634 km (394 miles), the new Model 3+ will feature a more energy-dense nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery supplied by LG Energy Solution, according to a filing with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). NMC batteries, while more expensive, typically provide greater range due to their higher energy density.
The Model 3+ maintains an efficient single-motor configuration, which when combined with the new LG NMC pack, is expected to push the range beyond the current Model 3 Long Range AWD’s 753 km (468 miles) CLTC rating — possibly approaching or even exceeding 800 km (497 miles).
According to the MIIT filing, the Model 3+ features a peak motor power of 225 kW, up from 194 kW in the existing base RWD variant. Physically, the new Model 3+ maintains the same physical dimensions as other variants — 4,720 mm in length, 1,848 mm in width, and 1,442 mm in height (185.8 x 72.8 x 56.7 inches) — with a curb weight of 1,760 kg (3,880 lbs). It also shares the 200 km/h (124 mph) top speed and 2,875 mm (113.2 inch) wheelbase with its siblings.
If approved following the MIIT public comment period (July 17–23), the Model 3+ could join the Chinese lineup alongside the current RWD, Long Range AWD, and Performance AWD variants as early as September. The vehicle is expected to launch with a starting price of around ¥270,000 (C$51,500/US$37,600), positioning it between the current base Model 3 RWD at ¥235,500 and the Long Range AWD variant at ¥285,500.
The new Model 3+ isn’t the only new Tesla vehicle revealed in China today. Also on Wednesday, Tesla revealed a new extended wheelbase Model Y with seating for six, and it is also expected to launch this fall.
