The Tesla Model 3, launched in 2017, quickly became a pivotal vehicle in the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. The 2020 facelift, particularly the Long Range variant with its 80.5 kWh battery, represented a significant refinement of the original design, enhancing both performance and efficiency. Positioned in the compact executive car segment, the Model 3 aimed to deliver a premium electric experience at a more accessible price point than its larger sibling, the Model S. This version, produced from October 2020 to November 2021, solidified Tesla’s position as a leader in the burgeoning EV market.
Tesla Model 3 (Facelift 2020) Long Range: An Overview
The Model 3 Long Range is a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) designed for a balance of range, performance, and practicality. The facelift brought subtle but important changes to the interior and exterior, improving build quality and adding features that enhanced the overall driving experience. Its all-electric powertrain and focus on technology set it apart from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, appealing to a growing segment of environmentally conscious and tech-savvy consumers. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration provides enhanced traction and acceleration capabilities.
Engine & Performance
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 Long Range utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain. The front motor produces 165 horsepower and 163 Nm (120.22 lb.-ft.) of torque, while the rear motor delivers a more substantial 276 horsepower and 330 Nm (243.4 lb.-ft.) of torque. Combined, the system generates a total of 441 horsepower and 493 Nm (363.62 lb.-ft.) of torque. This allows for brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 4.2 seconds and 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 144.78 mph (233 km/h). The powertrain’s efficiency is notable, with an energy consumption of 14.8 kWh per 100 km (23.82 kWh per 100 miles), translating to an equivalent of 141 MPGe and a range of 6.8 km/kWh (4.2 miles/kWh). The single-speed automatic transmission provides seamless power delivery.
Design & Features
The Model 3 is a four-door sedan with a fastback roofline, contributing to its sleek and aerodynamic profile. It seats five passengers and offers a minimalist interior dominated by a large central touchscreen that controls most vehicle functions. The 2020 facelift included improvements to the interior materials and fit and finish. Key features include Tesla’s Autopilot system, which provides advanced driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Safety is a paramount concern, with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems, including ABS, and a robust structural design. The battery pack is located beneath the floor, contributing to a low center of gravity and improved handling. Trunk space is a practical 649 liters (22.92 cubic feet). The vehicle’s design prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency to maximize range.
Technology and Innovation
The Model 3 Long Range is a showcase of Tesla’s technological prowess. Over-the-air software updates continuously improve the vehicle’s functionality and performance, adding new features and refining existing ones. The central touchscreen interface is intuitive and provides access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The Autopilot system, while not fully autonomous, represents a significant step towards self-driving technology. The battery management system is sophisticated, optimizing battery life and performance. The vehicle’s regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration, further enhancing efficiency. The minimalist interior design reflects Tesla’s focus on simplicity and user experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tesla |
| Model | Model 3 |
| Generation | Model 3 (facelift 2020) |
| Type | Long Range 80.5 kWh (441 Hp) Dual Motor AWD |
| Start of production | October, 2020 |
| End of production | November, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan, Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 233 km/h (144.78 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 228.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 255.7 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 80.5 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 75 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 360 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 614 km (381.52 mi) |
| All-electric range | 568 km (352.94 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 14.8 kWh/100 km (23.82 kWh/100 mi) |
| Electric motor 1 Power | 165 Hp @ 8275 rpm (120.22 lb.-ft. @ 125-6375 rpm) |
| Electric motor 1 Location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 Power | 276 Hp @ 6700 rpm (243.4 lb.-ft. @ 325-5500 rpm) |
| Electric motor 2 Location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 441 Hp |
| System torque | 493 Nm (363.62 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 1928 kg (4250.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2301 kg (5072.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 373 kg (822.32 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 649 l (22.92 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4694 mm (184.8 in.) |
| Width | 1849 mm (72.8 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1933 mm (76.1 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2088 mm (82.2 in.) |
| Height | 1443 mm (56.81 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2875 mm (113.19 in.) |
| Front track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |


