Tesla Might Commercialize a Model 3 “Plaid”

The Kilowatts media platform recently speculated that Tesla may introduce a Plaid Model 3, despite past statements from Elon Musk.

·      The Kilowatts media outlet identified a Plaid Badge on a Tesla Model 3 image.

·      Plaid Powertrain offers acceleration rates of 1.99 seconds for the Model S.

·      A Plaid Model 3 could combine high-speed performance with relative affordability.

According to The Kilowatts, a recognized EV content media platform, there’s rising speculation that Tesla might be considering the development of a Plaid Model 3. This comes after the discovery of a Plaid Badge on an image of a Tesla Model 3 rear bumper.

Tesla’s Parts Catalog confirms Tesla is working on a Performance version of the new Model 3, potentially PLAID!! pic.twitter.com/N7qxt0LUqM

— The Kilowatts 🚗⚡️ (@klwtts) October 19, 2023

Historically, the Plaid Powertrain was integrated into Tesla’s Model S and Model X in 2021, making these vehicles the fastest the company had ever produced. For perspective, the Model S, equipped with the Plaid Powertrain, boasts a rapid acceleration rate from 0-60 MPH in just 1.99 seconds. The Model X, although slightly slower, achieves this in 2.3 seconds. Notably, these two models constitute less than 5% of Tesla’s quarterly production and delivery statistics.

While there’s a clear demand for speed, the Plaid versions of these vehicles come with a hefty price tag of $89,990 in the U.S., which many consumers find steep. The top speeds for these models are 200 MPH for the Model S and 149 MPH for the Model X.

The introduction of a Model 3 with Plaid capabilities could be a game-changer. It could potentially offer consumers the thrill of once unattainable speed at a more accessible price point, widening Tesla’s consumer base.

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It’s worth noting that Elon Musk had previously dismissed the idea of such a development. However, given Musk’s history of surprising moves, it wouldn’t be unprecedented for him to shift strategies. Recent changes, such as Tesla’s decision to start spending on advertising and the flexibility with Full Self-Driving licensing, underscore this unpredictability.

If realized, a Plaid Model 3 could rejuvenate interest in Tesla’s mass-market sedan, especially in the U.S. market.