Tesla is expanding its electric vehicle lineup in China with two exciting additions a long-range variant of the Model 3 and a more spacious, six-seat version of the Model Y. The news comes directly from official filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), giving us a first detailed look at these upcoming models.
The MIIT documents reveal both technical specifications and projected ranges under the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) standard. While CLTC numbers are typically more optimistic than real-world figures, the ranges still represent impressive achievements and push the boundaries of what Tesla customers can expect.
Model 3+: The Longest-Range Tesla Yet
The highlight of these filings is the upcoming Model 3+, a new single-motor, rear-wheel-drive sedan that claims an astounding 830 km range on a single charge under CLTC testing. This figure would make it the longest-range Tesla currently available not just in China, but in Tesla’s global portfolio.
To put this into perspective, the current Model 3 Long Range AWD, which holds the top spot in China right now, offers up to 753 km CLTC range. That means the Model 3+ extends the driving distance by a significant margin.
The new Model 3+ runs on a 78.4 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery pack provided by LG Energy Solution. The battery weighs 448 kg and offers an energy density of 175 Wh/kg. Under the hood or rather, under the floor sits a more powerful single electric motor rated at 225 kW, a step up from the 194 kW motor in the current base Model 3. The vehicle’s curb weight comes in at 1,760 kg.
With this combination of enhanced battery capacity, improved motor output, and efficient aerodynamics, the Model 3+ aims to deliver not only longer range but also livelier performance compared to its predecessor.
Model Y L: Six Seats and Long-Range Capability
Tesla isn’t stopping with the Model 3. The filings also introduce the Model Y L, a six-seat variant of the popular crossover designed for added passenger capacity and flexibility. This is the first time the Model Y in China will be offered with a seating layout beyond the standard five-seat configuration.
The Model Y L is powered by an all-wheel-drive setup that includes a 142 kW motor in the front and a more powerful 198 kW motor driving the rear wheels. This setup is paired with an 82.0 kWh ternary battery pack also supplied by LG Energy Solution delivering up to 751 km of CLTC range.
The battery in the Model Y L is slightly larger and heavier than the Model 3+ unit, weighing 465 kg, but it boasts a slightly higher energy density at 176 Wh/kg. Tesla has previously confirmed plans to launch the six-seat Model Y in China this fall, and its presence in the MIIT catalog for tax-exempt vehicles strongly suggests the timeline is on track.
Pricing and Market Position
Tesla’s current Model 3 lineup in China includes three versions: the Base Rear-Wheel Drive priced at RMB 235,500 (€27,990; $32,800; ₹28,72,000), the Long Range AWD at RMB 285,500 (€33,930; $39,800; ₹34,82,000), and the Performance AWD model priced at RMB 339,500 (€40,400; $47,250; ₹41,41,000).
For the Model Y, the five-seat base rear-wheel-drive version starts at RMB 263,500 (€31,300; $36,700; ₹32,13,000), while the Long Range AWD model is priced from RMB 313,500 (€37,260; $43,650; ₹38,24,000).
Pricing for the upcoming Model 3+ and Model Y L has yet to be announced, but given their upgraded specifications, they are likely to command a premium over existing versions.
What These Updates Mean for Tesla in China
The introduction of the Model 3+ with its extended range could strengthen Tesla’s position in the premium EV market, especially among drivers prioritizing long-distance travel without frequent charging stops. Meanwhile, the six-seat Model Y L caters to families and buyers looking for more seating flexibility without compromising on range or performance.
Both models underscore Tesla’s ongoing commitment to diversifying its lineup for the Chinese market, a critical region for the company’s global growth strategy. With these offerings, Tesla is clearly targeting both ends of the spectrum efficiency and practicality while staying true to its performance-driven DNA.
What are your thoughts on Tesla’s new Model 3+ and Model Y L for the Chinese market? Do you think the extended range and added seating capacity will give Tesla a stronger competitive edge against local EV rivals? Let us know in the comments below!
