Tesla Teases Exciting Updates for Model 3 Performance 'Highland' Edition

Tesla may be planning something special for the Model 3 Performance "Highland" update. While the vehicle is yet to be released, a European Type Certificate from the RDW suggests that the upcoming all-electric sedan will feature a rather unique electric motor setup.

The Tesla Model 3 Performance is arguably the company's most exhilarating car in its lineup. It's smaller than the Model S Plaid, making it a blast to handle on corners. What's more, it offers impressive value at its current price of $53,240 in the United States before incentives. For this price, the Model 3 Performance delivers a remarkable 0-60 mph time of 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 162 mph.

During the recent "Highland" refresh of the Model 3, electric vehicle enthusiasts were surprised to find only two variants – the single-motor RWD and the Long Range Dual Motor AWD. The absence of the Model 3 Performance raised eyebrows, especially considering its popularity within the EV community.

As pointed out in a post on the TFF Forum, a European Type Certificate from the vehicle authority RDW in July unveiled a new Model 3 Performance, distinguished by the letter "T" on its VIN's eighth digit. Since the eighth digit in a VIN typically denotes the type of motor, the presence of "T" in the new Model 3 Performance's VIN sparks intrigue.

Tesla has previously used the "T" designation on the European Model S and Model X Plaid's VIN, both featuring a tri-motor AWD setup. While it's unlikely for Tesla to release a tri-motor Model 3, the company may integrate one of the Model S/X Plaid's motors into the upcoming top-tier electric sedan. Incorporating a motor from Tesla's flagship vehicles could potentially elevate the Model 3 Performance even further.

It remains to be seen how Tesla plans to enhance the already impressive Model 3 Performance with the "Highland" update. Nevertheless, it wouldn't be surprising if Tesla makes improvements in key areas, such as the 0-60 mph acceleration time and top speed. With these enhancements, the Model 3 Performance could pose a formidable challenge to rivals in terms of both price and performance.

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