Leaked photos suggest there’s a high-performance dual-motor version of the updated Tesla Model 3 in the offing.
If the photos are anything to go by, the successor to the Tesla Model 3 Performance looks set to draw inspiration from its Model S sibling.
Now X (formerly Twitter) user The Kilowatts has uncovered a parts catalogue for the updated Model 3.
READ MORE! Tesla reveals all new Model 3 with first major refresh in 6 years
It shows a new badge that points to the Performance adopting the ‘Ludicrous’ moniker – as well as sport brakes, suspension and wheels.
Some social media users have speculated the badge points to the Plaid name being used.
However, the Ludicrous moniker has emerged as a more likely alternative.
Tesla’s Parts Catalog confirms Tesla is working on a Performance version of the new Model 3, potentially PLAID!! pic.twitter.com/N7qxt0LUqM
— The Kilowatts 🚗⚡️ (@klwtts) October 19, 2023
If you’re familiar with the 1987 movie Spaceballs, you may recall the scene when the spaceship approaches “Ludicrous Speed”, said to be faster than light.
It’s a little known fact that Elon Musk is a fan of the movie, and that’s why the pattern shown on the badge is the effect seen.
This “Ludicrous Speed” was also the name inspiration for the rapid acceleration mode in high-performance Tesla Model S vehicles prior to 2021.
The EV has a Ludicrous Mode that enabled a claimed 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of just 2.5 seconds.
Last month, plans for a new flagship Tesla Model 3 were outed in a Dutch vehicle certification document.
The documcent listed a new Performance variant with dual electric motors, rather than three the electric motors of the 761kW Model S Plaid.
However, reports out of China suggest a power boost for the updated model compared to the 393kW – and 3.3-second 0-100 km/h sprint time – of the outgoing Performance.
As well as the badge, the parts catalogue reveals a new 20-inch wheel design available in either black or silver known as the ‘Warp’.
There will also be a new 19-inch black and silver wheel design different to the 19-inch ‘Nova’ alloy already unveiled.
The parts catalogue also lists “sport” brake calipers, brake pads and springs.
As for when the updated Tesla Model 3 Performance will arrive, it’s yet to be disclosed.
Tesla hasn’t even confirmed the vehicle’s existence, but previous reports suggest it could go into production by the end of the year in China.
