The US electric vehicle maker Tesla recently took a step forward to cut the complexity of its top-selling Model 3 sedan. The move could potentially help the company hasten production and cut costs. According to a new report, the electric vehicle maker dropped the sleeper Tesla Model 3 model and tweaked the level of equipment available in the said unit.

New Tesla Model 3 Performance Boost

The Tesla Model 3 Performance trim now comes with the standard Performance Upgrade Package. As reported by Carbuzz, the package which used to be a no-cost option unlocks the 162 miles per hour top speed, boosting the trim's top speed.

The Tesla Model 3 Performance upgrade also introduces enhancements like the 20-inch wheels with a grey finish. There are also improvements on the carbon-fiber spoiler, drop-in suspension, and upgrade on brakes. Other inclusions include track driving mode and aluminum pedal covers.

Many car enthusiasts view this move by Tesla as smart and strategic since it streamlines the production of the vehicle. In theory, fewer option variants and model derivatives make it easier and faster for the team to build the Tesla Model 3 sedan. It is worth noting that the US electric vehicle maker earlier revealed it is aiming to achieve 500,000 vehicle production by 2020-a feat achievable with its recent move despite the threats of the current global health crisis.

Currently, Tesla offers three Models 3 variants, namely standard, long-range, and performance. The Tesla Model 3 Standard trim features rear-wheel drive and a driving range of 250 miles. The Long-range version, on the other hand, can travel at 322 miles on a charge and can run from zero to 60 in as fast as 4.4 seconds with the standard all-wheel drive.

The Tesla Model 3 Performance version, meanwhile, trades range with increased acceleration. It can run for 299 miles between recharges and could rocket from zero to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. The standard model sells at $40,000, while the long-range retails at roughly $50,000. The more expensive Tesla Model 3 Performance trim starts selling at $57,000.

Other Tesla Details

In other Tesla news, the US electric vehicle maker reportedly began production of the Made In China Model 3 Long-Range trim. The price of the said model, according to a tipster, is a little bit higher than earlier announced. Tesla already announced a few weeks ago that the Gigafactory 3 in Shanghai, China would produce the long-range trim aside from the standard MIC model 3. The delivery of the Tesla Made in China Model 3 Long-range trim reportedly starts in Jun 2020.