Tesla’s highly anticipated refresh of the Model 3 electric sedan continues to pique curiosity and excitement among EV enthusiasts worldwide. While discussions have primarily revolved around the vehicle’s visual enhancements, recent reports suggest that Tesla’s upgrades would not be limited to the exterior.
Chinese tech media 36kr sparked the speculations with a report that suggests the incorporation of CATL M3P battery into the upcoming Model 3 Project Highland edition. Interestingly, the new battery tech can significantly boost the electric sedan’s range and performance capabilities.
CATL’s M3P LFP cells to boost refreshed Model 3’s range
The publication revealed that Tesla plans to introduce a new 66 kWh battery pack, with a special focus on upgrading the power capacity of the basic rear-wheel drive version from 60 kWh to 66 kWh with CATL’s battery tech.
“36 Krypton learned from a number of people familiar with the matter that Tesla’s domestically-made Model 3 facelift will continue to upgrade the battery pack, especially the power of the basic rear-wheel drive version will be upgraded from 60kWh to 66kWh, using Ningde era M3P new lithium iron phosphate battery.”
36kr (translated)
CATL’s M3P LFP cells are renowned for their superior energy density and cost efficiency. By integrating these cutting-edge battery cells, Tesla’s Model 3 could get a ~6 kWh increase in total energy within the battery pack, leading to a substantial boost in driving range.
For context, the Model 3 RWD currently available in the United States boasts an EPA-estimated range of 272 miles. In China, the same Model 3 RWD variant has an estimated range of 556 kilometers (approximately 345 miles) according to the CLTC standard. It is also worth noting that the Tesla Model 3 units sold in China are equipped with a 60 kWh battery pack.
All that said, this development can potentially address range anxiety concerns and further accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles.
CATL to mass produce the M3P cell this year
As previous reports suggested, CATL has been actively working on volume production of the new M3P cell, with deliveries set in 2023. This strategic timing aligns perfectly with Tesla’s plans for the Model 3 refresh, signaling a strong collaboration between the two innovative companies.
CATL has indeed emerged as one of Tesla’s key battery suppliers, with a significant presence in vehicles produced at Gigafactory Shanghai. The partnership between Tesla and CATL has facilitated advancements in electric vehicle technology, contributing to Tesla’s global success and popularity among EV enthusiasts.
While Tesla and CATL have yet to confirm using CATL’s M3P LFP cells in the Model 3 refresh, auto enthusiasts anticipate an official announcement soon.
See Also:
- CATL dominates global EV battery market in Jan-April 2023
- CATL records new high in its Q1 net profit growth as lithium prices drop
- CATL presents its new “Condensed Battery” at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show
- Tesla may soon develop a new battery production plant in the US with its major supplier CATL
- ATL starts mass production of upgraded Qilin battery in China
As Tesla continues to revolutionize the electric vehicle market and push the boundaries of sustainable transportation, utilizing CATL’s advanced battery technology could elevate the Model 3’s performance and further reinforce its position as an EV industry trailblazer.
Should the speculations prove true, Tesla’s utilization of this cutting-edge battery technology could set new benchmarks for driving range and reaffirm the company’s commitment.
