Tesla Launches Affordable Model 3 in Asia

[New Vehicle Launch] Tesla's Model 3 Standard Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) has launched in multiple Asian countries, with a post-subsidy starting price of RMB 174,000.

Core Development: Shanghai-Produced Budget Model 3 Makes Global Debut

The Model 3 Standard RWD, manufactured at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory, is now available for order in South Korea, Thailand, and the Philippines. In South Korea, the post-subsidy price is just RMB 174,000, the lowest globally; prices in Thailand and the Philippines are RMB 254,800 and RMB 217,000, respectively.

Key Specifications: Significantly Streamlined Range and Features

Battery capacity has been reduced from 62.5 kWh to 52.9 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP), cutting CLTC-rated range from 583 km to 382 km. The 0–100 km/h acceleration time has increased from 5.2 seconds to 6.2 seconds. Interior features removed include heated/ventilated seats, rear-seat display, and ambient lighting. The audio system has been downgraded from 9 speakers to 7, and both the steering wheel and rearview mirror now use manual adjustment.

Strategic Rationale: Trading Features for Volume to Defend Market Share

Despite significant reductions in comfort-oriented features, the core safety systems remain identical to those of higher trims, highlighting Tesla’s strategic balance of maintaining safety while reducing costs amid intense price competition.