For having a short time until its release, the Model 3 is still ever changing. Tesla hasn’t confirmed many specifics about it, giving estimates about its capabilities. Reportedly, the Model 3’s design isn’t set in stone either, leaving us to think that it’s going to be a bit of a scramble until it’s tentatively scheduled release in July. However, according to Reuters, Tesla will start building Model 3 Prototypes come February 20.
This will hopefully help Tesla create a real world vision for the Model 3. It has a lot of hype to live up to as well as big shoes to fill seeing as it’s slated to raise Tesla’s sales and production numbers drastically. The automaker has set a goal of producing 500,000 units annually by 2018, and without the financial support and demand from the Model 3, that’ll be almost impossible to achieve.
Although the real-world Model 3 isn’t fully developed, we do know that it will be Tesla’s best shot at creating an attainable EV. Clocking in at a $35,000 starting price, it sits below the Chevrolet Bolt EV which begins at $36,620. Despite its comparably low price point, it will still feature plenty of tech to keep up Tesla’s gadget-centric reputation. Some Autopilot features will come standard with other advanced options being available, so you can have what will surely be one of the cheapest semi-autonomous vehicles on the road. All of this combined with 215 miles of range will make the Model 3 quite the value.
Tesla will be shutting down its manufacturing plant in Fremont this month to advance development of the Model 3. During this time, the automaker will work out some remaining kinks to the future product while doing some small renovations to their facility. This will allow the company time to dedicate towards their prize-fighter, hopefully getting it ready for its release without any of the extended delays that Tesla has become known for.