The projected mass production schedule for the Tesla Model 3 is in 2017 yet. By then, Tesla would have already achieved several years of manufacturing experience so it would really be easier for the company to build the smaller Model 3 electric vehicle.
Tesla previously said that Model 3 would be built from steel instead of aluminum, which is easier and cheaper to work with. Unlike aluminum which is quite delicate, steel is more forgiving.
Having built the Roadster, the Model S and the Model X by 2017, building and mass producing the Model 3 should be a breeze for the company.
In addition to these production and experience factors, it should be noted that Tesla Motors operates like a tech company that builds a car than it does an old, lumbering, multi-national manufacturing corporation. It does not require too many studies and circuitous corporate approval to launch new cars. Its vehicles, like today’s gadgets, get software updates over the airwaves.
Once Tesla gains enough manufacturing experience, product development and mass production would become seamless as well.
Thus, it is not impossible if Tesla would be in time for the launching and production schedules for its Model 3 despite not being on time with its previous models.