Tesla Model 3 Performance version ‘might’ see further increase in power output, teases Elon Musk

The newly unveiled Tesla Model 3 Performance version is creating mixed feelings in the Tesla community with a high price and limited additional features.

Now, CEO Elon Musk has teased a possible increased power output for the version.

Tesla announced last weekend that the Performance Model 3 features a 15 mph increase in top speed to 155 mph and a quicker acceleration for a 0 to 60 mph time in just 3.5 seconds – compared to 4.5 seconds for the Model 3 non-performance dual motor and 5.2 seconds for the Model 3 rear-wheel-drive.

The performance version achieves those specs with the same motors (AC in the front and permanent magnet in the rear) as the dual version, but they are picking the highest rated ones with double the burn-in process to make sure they can handle a higher output.

Musk now says that they could still get ‘a little’ more out of the powertrain:

Also, not promising anything, but we *might* be able to increase Model 3 Performance power output a little

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 22, 2018

Tesla has been known to advertise lower acceleration times than what owners have been able to get out of their vehicles.

For example, a Model 3 rear-wheel-drive single motor was recorded with a 4.6-second 0-60 mph time.

The first Model 3 Performance vehicles, which are starting at $78,000, are expected to be delivered in the next 12 to 16 weeks. At that time, it will be interesting to see some real-world tests of those cars reveals.

Electrek’s Take

I’d love to get your opinions on the value of the Performance Model 3 because as you may know, I was waiting for either the dual motor AWD or the performance version to pull the trigger on my Model 3 order.

I think $78,000 is a good value compared to the competition in the segment for a performance midsize sedan, but I am not necessarily in the market for a performance midsize sedan.

What I want is the best value for an all-wheel-drive electric midsize sedan and for now, that means a Performance Model 3 or a dual motor Model 3.

If I understand Tesla’s pricing structure correctly, you can get a dual motor Model 3 for $54,000 at the moment, which means that the performance version adds $24,000.

For that amount, you get a carbon fiber spoiler, 20” Performance wheels, and correct me if I’m wrong, but virtually the same powertrain with the difference that Tesla is going to sort out the highest performance motors and validate them for a higher power output. That’s how they can deliver on the higher performance specs.

I guess it is something but is it worth the price difference with the dual motor?

What do you think? Let us know in the comment section below.