The Tesla Model 3, launched in 2017, represented a pivotal moment for the electric vehicle market. Aimed at the mainstream consumer, it promised a compelling combination of performance, range, and technology at a more accessible price point than its predecessors, the Roadster and Model S. The 55 kWh variant, produced from 2019 to 2020, was an early iteration of the Model 3, establishing the core design and features that would define the vehicle. This model played a crucial role in expanding Tesla’s production capacity and solidifying its position as a leader in the burgeoning EV sector. It was primarily sold in North America, Europe, and Asia, contributing significantly to the global adoption of electric vehicles.
Tesla Model 3 55 kWh: An Overview
The Tesla Model 3 55 kWh is a compact executive sedan, categorized as a fastback due to its sloping rear roofline. It was designed to be a practical and efficient electric vehicle for everyday use, offering seating for five passengers and a usable cargo space. This particular version, equipped with a 55 kWh battery pack, served as the entry-level Model 3, providing a balance between affordability and range. While later iterations offered larger battery packs and increased performance, the 55 kWh model was instrumental in demonstrating the viability of electric vehicles to a wider audience.
Engine & Performance
The Tesla Model 3 55 kWh is powered by a single electric motor driving the rear wheels. This configuration delivers 204 horsepower and 258.15 lb.-ft. of torque. The absence of a traditional internal combustion engine and multi-gear transmission results in instant torque delivery, providing brisk acceleration. Tesla quotes a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds, and a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 5.9 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 129.87 mph (209 km/h). The battery pack provides a gross capacity of 55 kWh, translating to an all-electric range of approximately 190.14 miles (306 km) under typical driving conditions. The weight-to-power ratio is 8.3 kg/Hp, or 121.1 Hp/tonne, contributing to its responsive handling. The single-speed automatic transmission simplifies the driving experience, focusing on efficient power delivery.
Design & Features
The Model 3’s design is characterized by its minimalist aesthetic, both inside and out. The exterior features a sleek, aerodynamic profile, contributing to its efficiency. The fastback body style provides a sporty appearance while maximizing interior space. Inside, the cabin is dominated by a large, centrally-mounted touchscreen that controls most vehicle functions, minimizing physical buttons. This minimalist approach extends to the dashboard and overall interior design. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The Model 3 was also designed with over-the-air software updates in mind, allowing Tesla to continuously improve the vehicle’s functionality and performance remotely. The four-door sedan configuration provides easy access for both front and rear passengers, and the five-seat layout offers comfortable accommodation for a small family or group. The vehicle’s dimensions – a length of 184.8 inches, a width of 72.8 inches, and a height of 56.81 inches – position it squarely within the compact executive sedan segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tesla |
| Model | Model 3 |
| Generation | Model 3 |
| Type (Engine) | 55 kWh (204 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan, Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 129.87 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Gross battery capacity | 55 kWh |
| All-electric range | 190.14 mi |
| Electric motor power | 204 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 258.15 lb.-ft. |
| System power | 204 Hp |
| Kerb Weight | 3714.79 lbs. |
| Length | 184.8 in. |
| Width | 72.8 in. |
| Height | 56.81 in. |
| Wheelbase | 113.19 in. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
The Tesla Model 3 55 kWh, despite being an early model, laid the groundwork for the widespread acceptance of electric vehicles. Its combination of performance, range, and technology, coupled with Tesla’s innovative approach to vehicle design and manufacturing, made it a significant milestone in the automotive industry. While subsequent models have surpassed it in terms of battery capacity and performance, the 55 kWh variant remains a historically important vehicle, representing a crucial step towards a sustainable transportation future.
