"Mini" Tesla to be released in 2023

Group CEO Elon Musk announced that with the new battery cells developed by Tesla, an electric car for $25,000—before taxes—becomes possible. The new model is to be developed in China for the global market. Despite the low price, the small Tesla will also offer cutting-edge technology such as autonomous driving. Elon Musk tweeted that they are even considering not equipping the series with a steering wheel and pedals at all. At the start in 2023, steering wheel and pedals will still be installed, as full autonomous driving on public roads is technically not yet possible and a legal regulation is still pending.

Model 3, too hot to handle

According to the first released sketches, the new model will resemble the Model 3. Reports from China suggest that the new model will be called "Q". Tesla also promises strong acceleration for the Model Q, from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 to 6.9 seconds. As with other model series, both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions are expected to be available. The range is said to be 400 kilometers.

Production in China

The new electric car will be produced in the Tesla factory in Shanghai and is designed for the global market. Tesla brings a new battery partner on board for the Model Q with BYD. So far, the EV manufacturer has been working with Panasonic and has purchased from battery manufacturers LG Chem and CATL. Now, the Chinese automotive company BYD is also set to supply batteries with more cost-effective LFP technology. In 2020, Tesla introduced a new type of battery that promises high safety and optimized space usage.