Tesla is formally launching its Model 3 car this 2017 and reservations are now full for its first year of release. Model 3 is set as an affordable entry-level electric car that aims to reach out to a wider market. This model is far-off from its expensive predecessors.
Since Tesla's Model 3 prototype was released earlier this year, thousands have placed their $1,000 deposit for reservation. As quintessential with any Tesla car, the body kit captivates with its unique, seamless and ergonomic design.
The main selling point of the car consists of its into-the-future self-driving (or, "autonomous driving") feature. Dubbed as almost impossible less than a decade ago, Tesla makes it happen in a sleek electric car. Although Model 3 leans towards between an autopilot and an autonomous feature, CEO Elon Musk stresses the possibility of Model 3 being 100% autonomous.
The car's exterior can speak for itself: an aerodynamic design that can lessen air drag to facilitate a smoother driving experience; a bigger boot compared to predecessors Models S and X, yet fully integrated to the overall sleek look; a choice among dark blue, matte black and silver for car paint; and the option to turn the covered roof into a panoramic sunroof. The bigger boot design was due to customer complaints on Tesla's first car releases.
Model 3's futuristic exterior is not far from its interior setup: it's hard not to notice the 15-inch monitor smacked in the dash's center for Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, USB and audio needs. It's an all-in-one monitor for all the driver's needs, which Musk says is but a realization of the future of cars. Having just one monitor without all the other options and buttons does make it look cleaner and roomier. The back sets can also be folded, aligning perfectly with the floor.
Model 3 is not bad with its average of 215 mileage capacity on a single full charge, on a stock battery. Customers have the option to upgrade their batteries should they choose to use the car for longer rides.
Although Model 3 is the cheapest among the three Tesla cars, it does come with some costly add-on features. To upgrade the autopilot feature, which can include self-driving, self-parking, and a smarter cruise control capable of being maneuvered in traffic and on different types of roads, a customer would need to add $5,000. Should the customer want the "holy grail" of an autopilot feature, which is the 100% self-driving capability, he/she should be willing to pay an additional $8,000.
The disclosed starting price for Model 3 is around $37,000; and this, being Tesla's most affordable car.
Tesla's Model 3 is yet another innovation by Elon Musk who was made famous by his PayPal invention. He's also founded SpaceX, so Model 3's spaceship-like design is not at all a surprise.
