One familiar and beloved version of the Tesla Model 3 was missing when the EV was facelifted for the 2024 model year just a few short weeks ago; the Model 3 Performance. However, it doesn’t appear as though the carmaker has forgotten about those seeking a more sporty variant as a new Performance version could be just around the corner.
Information recently shared on the TFF Forum in Germany and picked up by Drive Tesla Canada shows that the Dutch vehicle authority recently published a vehicle certification document for the 2024 Model 3 that makes mention of a new Performance model. This model has the letter ‘T’ as the eighth digit of its VIN and the document specifies that the ‘T’ refers to a Performance model with a Dual Motor configuration.
Read: 2024 Tesla Model 3 Looks Better, Has More Range, And A Nicer Interior
Photos Baldauf / ten Brink for CarScoops
Initially, some reports suggested that the ‘T’ could refer to a tri-motor powertrain, as found in the Tesla Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid. However, such a powertrain would probably make the Model 3 Performance a little too expensive and it is more likely that Tesla could outfit it with two of the updated electric motors found in the Plaid models. These motors are more efficient and more powerful and should make the 2024 Model 3 Performance even quicker than its predecessor.
The outgoing Model 3 Performance delivers 450 hp and 471 lb-ft (639 Nm) of torque from its two electric motors and can hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 3.1 seconds and a 162 mph (260 km/h) top speed. It’s entirely possible that the facelifted version will be able to hit 60 mph in less than 3.0 seconds while also benefitting from a higher top speed.
It remains unclear when the new Model 3 Performance could hit the market but it could be some ways off. After all, Tesla has not yet launched the facelifted Model 3 in North America despite production of it already starting in China and examples already being shipped to Europe.