While pre-orders for the Tesla Model 3 continue to swell, rumors about whether Tesla will meet its 2017 production estimate grew with them. Getting ahead of the misinformation, Musk assured that the Model 3 shall be ready next year.
But he did not specify if the Model 3 will be produced by trim or options level, or simply by reservation order. Time will tell if Musk is blowing smoke, especially considering previous hiccups with the Model S and the Model X. The latter, for example, was scheduled for production at the end of 2014 before it was delayed to late 2015.
Musk also announced that the Tesla Model 3 had the biggest one-week launch of any product ever. Tesla’s books had racked up 325,000 pre-orders for an estimated $14 billion in revenues as of early April this year. In Musk’s grand claim, he included iPhone and game system launches, which have hit huge order numbers in the past.
Musk also re-affirmed that the Model 3 would cost $35,000 before tax incentives, undercutting the $38,000 Chevy Bolt. Finally, Tesla said orders would begin being fulfilled in 2017.
By comparison to the startup automaker’s current vehicles, the most frugal Model S achieves a range of just under 300 miles, the Model X gets up to 250 miles, and the Roadster can go for 245 miles.
The Tesla Model 3 will be far less expensive among all the Tesla electric vehicles highlighted by remarkable 215-plus mile range.