Unofficial report suggests revamped Tesla Model 3 (code name Highland) to feature upgraded CATL M3P lithium-ion batteries, according to recent Chinese media sources.
The upgraded battery pack in the new Tesla Model 3 is anticipated to have a storage capacity of around 66 kWh, offering a boost compared to the current 60 kWh LFP pack. This increase of 6 kWh (or 10 percent) is expected to potentially extend the CLTC driving range from 346 miles (556 km) to approximately 380 miles (over 610 km).
Additionally, there are speculations that the revamped Tesla Model Y (code name Juniper), expected in 2024, could also incorporate the new CATL M3P batteries. The report suggests that this battery variant would offer a storage capacity of 72 kWh.
Although there is no official confirmation regarding the Tesla Model 3 Highland, sources indicate that its release is imminent and production is expected to commence at the Tesla Giga Shanghai factory. It has been reported that test vehicle trials are currently underway.
Despite the absence of official confirmation, the Tesla Model 3 Highland is widely anticipated to be on the horizon and poised for production at the Tesla Giga Shanghai factory. Sources suggest that test vehicle trials are currently in progress, adding to the anticipation surrounding its imminent release.
Alongside the possibility of a new battery, the upcoming Tesla Model 3 Highland is expected to undergo various other enhancements. According to additional reports, the car will feature a slightly elongated, sportier, and more streamlined design compared to its predecessors.
Tesla’s motive behind developing the new Model 3 is widely believed to be aimed at boosting sales and maintaining its market position. With the model initially launched in the United States in 2017 and in China in 2020, the company aims to prevent any decline in its popularity by introducing the updated version.
The possibility of future versions of the Tesla Model 3 incorporating structural battery packs with the new 4680-type cylindrical battery cells (currently used in the Tesla Model Y AWD) cannot be ruled out. As Tesla has not provided any official statements regarding the Highland/Juniper rumors, no definitive information can be confirmed at this time.
The report suggests that the upcoming revamped Tesla Model 3, internally known as “Highland,” will feature an upgraded traction battery. According to an unofficial report from China, the entry-level version of the Model 3 will be equipped with CATL’s M3P lithium-ion batteries. CATL has been supplying Tesla with LFP batteries for certain versions of the entry-level Model 3 and Model Y for some time.
The new battery pack is expected to have a capacity of around 66 kilowatt-hours (kWh), compared to the current 60 kWh LFP battery. This increase in capacity, approximately 6 kWh or 10 percent, could potentially enhance the car’s driving range from the existing 346 miles (556 km) to around 380 miles (over 610 km).
Additionally, the report speculates that the revamped Tesla Model Y, codenamed “Juniper” and anticipated for release in 2024, may also incorporate the CATL M3P batteries with a capacity of 72 kWh.
Although there is no official confirmation from Tesla regarding the Model 3 Highland, it is believed to be approaching production at the Tesla Giga Shanghai factory. Trials of test vehicles are reportedly underway. It is important to note that Tesla has not provided official statements on the Highland/Juniper rumors, so these details should be considered speculative until official information is released.
Source : insideevs.com