Tesla has released a refreshed version of the Model 3 in China, two years after the electric car originally went on sale in the country. The updated car has a new air-conditioning system and battery pack boosting the driving range to 600 kilometers (373 miles). It’s a major increase from the original Model 3, which was only capable of going for 409 kilometers (254 miles) on a single charge.
The new Model 3 now rivals Chinese electric vehicle competitors like Nio, Xpeng and Li Auto, which have announced long-range EV models in the country. It’s part of Tesla’s efforts to maintain its lead in the Chinese EV market, which is the world’s largest and dominated by local companies.
The refreshed Model 3 also features improved exterior aesthetics, with minor design changes such as a chrome finish on the side mirrors and door handles. It also comes with larger 18-inch all-weather tires made by China’s Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber Co.
The new Model 3 is currently being manufactured at Tesla’s Shanghai factory, and is available in three trim levels for order. Prices start at 249,900 yuan ($38,225) for the basic version, with the top-end version costing 37,300 yuan ($5,715) more.
