Tesla’s Model 3 Strikes Back with an Impressive 333-mile EPA Range
In a boost for Tesla, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has now confirmed an impressive 333-mile range for the recently re-introduced Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD). This model was absent from the U.S market for almost a year, with CEO Elon Musk attributing its discontinuation to excessive demand.
Earlier this month, Tesla began accepting new orders for the vehicle, anticipating deliveries later this year. Initial estimates from the automaker suggested a range exceeding 325 miles on a single charge. With the latest update on Tesla’s online configurator, the EPA’s 333-mile range rating came as a mild uplift from the initial projection.
However, this figure falls short of the original Model 3 LR AWD, which claimed an impressive 358-mile range. This discrepancy is likely due to the new model’s speculated use of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) cells from China, which possess a lower energy density than their nickel-based counterparts.
Furthermore, the vehicle qualifies for only half of the $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles. This suggests that its batteries are sourced outside North America. As of now, Tesla is signaling deliveries for the new Model 3 LR AWD in June.
Photos courtesy of Tesla.