2-9-2023 (BEIJING) Tesla has introduced its redesigned, China-manufactured Model 3 sedan to the public at a trade fair in Beijing, following its global launch in several countries the day before.
The U.S. automaker unveiled a flame red version of the vehicle at the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS). This marks the first update to Tesla’s mass-market car lineup since the introduction of the Model Y in 2020.
The debut of the new Model 3 is significant as it’s the first time Tesla has released a vehicle in China before the United States. This underscores the company’s growing reliance on China, where it is in a fierce competition for market share with companies like BYD.
The Model 3 is being produced at Tesla’s Shanghai factory and will also be exported to other markets in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Some of its new features, such as a rear display for back-seat passengers, appear to be tailored to Chinese consumers.
At the trade fair, Tesla’s sales representatives fielded inquiries from potential buyers. A 22-year-old university student named Guo, who visited the fair to learn more about the car’s debut, praised upgrades to the vehicle’s audio system and the rear display.
Meanwhile, another visitor named Hu expressed her hesitation, noting the abundance of new energy vehicles on the market.
Tesla has announced plans to showcase the new model at the Munich auto show, scheduled to open on Tuesday.
