]but the starting Model 3 will be close to $50,000. Even then, the Bolt won't be that far behind in range because the Tesla is more powerful and will go through kWh quicker. The $35,000 Model 3 will have better acceleration than the Bolt, but will be behind in most categories including range.
in other threads this has been discussed - but I’ll repeat my opinion here
2 months ago I would’ve agreed with you on the 1st batch of Model 3’s being $50,000 affairs (maximize revenue/margin) - this would follow Tesla’s historic patterns, build the higher end more expensive stuff first - deliver base models later…
however with Elon’s recent statements about limited options (color and wheel size and RWD only) being the first target production - I think you will be able to:
a) take delivery a Model 3 for the stated base price if you have an early reservation
b) take delivery of it
also there will be an interesting dynamic in that some reservation holders will wait for a more fully featured 3 (AWD & bigger battery) which mean later reservations wanting to buy the RWD $35k base model will be offered a chance to take delivery sooner…this happened with Model X reservations with some later reservation holders moving to the “front” of the line if the current production versions met their desires/needs…while others earlier reservation holders waited for different models than met their needs.
the options that will push up the price are mostly the software (enhanced auto-pilot and full self driving sofware upgrades) - choosing these options do not cause a different car down the manufacturing line or sourcing different parts…
so while you may be able to push the price close to $50,000 the production line can/will produce the $35,000 model - and Elon wants to make a splash - he will get all sort of flack if none of the $35,000 versions ship…
so even though it goes against my personal experience and Tesla’s historic behavior, I’m stating for the record Tesla will delivery a significant number of $35,000’ish Model 3 before the end of 2017 - because they realize this is different…and there are existing reservation holders for which that is the car they want and planned to buy…
Note: if you take the $35,000 starting price and add the software options for enhanced autopilot and full self driving (each $1000 cheaper with order for the Model S, more after car delivery) - the Model 3 prices out as follows:
$35,000 base car (RWD - 215 miles range)
$5,000 enhanced autopilot
$3,000 full self driving capability
$2,500 premium sound
the range of cars sold/delivered will be $35,000 - $45,500
given Elon’s intention to ramp production quickly there will be no
AWD model
Different Battery Size
or a lot of options that cause manufacturing differences
And having driven Tesla’s for 4 years - they do not go through kWh “quicker” because they are more powerful, if you drive them conservatively they do not consume more kWh than any other EV (other than he weight difference) - you CAN drive them more aggressively and then your kWh consumption is high- but as with all EV’s they are highly efficient, and you do not pay penalty for torque/power you do not use…
and I also don’t know other than range how the Tesla Model 3 will be behind in “most categories” - what categories are you thinking the Bolt will trump the Model 3?
I’ll give the Bolt the following categories
Range but not by much (existing Model S 60’s are routinely driven 230 miles by their owners)
Passenger Space
Cargo Capacity
Better cargo hatch on the Bolt
Easy of getting in/out
360 degree overhead view for parking
kudos to the Bolt for an included WiFi hotspot
I’ll predict the Model 3 will dominate in
Auto driving abilities and general technical abilities + all the features of chevy’s “driver confidence packages” - abilities getting better over time w/software updates
Self Parking ability
Summon
eventual AWD version
eventual battery size choices
Future abilities added to the car (OTA updates)
Built-in music streaming service included w/car commercial free unlimited skips (spotify or slacker - existing feature in S/X)
Integrated web-browser in the infotainment - great in a pinch when you need to look something up.
Integrated google maps
Included car data system for remote access and diagnostics (onStar) at no additional costs
Integrated navigation with charging aware trip routing (existing in S & X)
Homelink standard with GPS based auto-open/close (existing software feature in S/X)
Better charging story (mobile 240 volt charger standard - 40 amp with plug) at least 40 if not 48 amp charger standard - 48 amp option with Wall mounted charger - J-1772 adapter included with car.
GPS aware charge settings
Comfort of the front seats
Performance
Reliable nationwide Super Charging network - w/existing Chademo adapter for access to more chargers
so I’ll be generous and call the items below a Tie!
most would agree the Model 3 is more stylish than the Bolt - but I know some love the Bolt
remote app
drivetrain/battery warranty
fun to drive
good acceleration/handling
low maintenance
affordable
can drive long distances
seat 5 people
some cargo flexibility (long items with 2nd row folded down)
first scheduled maintenance is in the 100k miles range - tires/wipers up until then
one peddle driving (regen)
brake longevity
easy to park being a smaller car