It's Alive! Spy Video Catches Tesla Model 3 Prototype On The Streets

A newly released spy video showcases the more affordable electric sedan of the Californian automaker looking ready for the consumers months ahead of its actual dealership introduction.

This new spy video is a hint towards the idea that Tesla’s Model 3 production version might actually look virtually identical to the prototype Tesla used for the public reveal from last year. The company will start series assembly work from July after trials this month, and the example in the video is looking ready to enter the automaker’s stores – as the brand doesn’t use the traditional dealership network.
 

nguyenvuminh - 3/14/2017 1:28:45 PM

+1 Boost

Looks good, not earth shattering but still good.

mre30 - 3/14/2017 1:29:24 PM

+1 Boost

Finally a Model 3, running prototype. I guess it will eventually be launched after all!

It's obviously small (smaller than the Model S) - I will be interested to see how the customer base scales down and to see what new customers Tesla gains.

How curious that the cover music for the clip is the "You Only Live Twice" theme song. HMMMMM - is that suggesting that this is 'make it or break it' time for Tesla?

SanJoseDriver - 3/15/2017 6:59:41 PM

+2 Boost

It's actually not that much smaller in terms of interior space since it is taller than the Model S and has a more efficient user of space (I will definitely miss the hatchback though).

The video is not an official one, basically a spy shot. We should know more in 3 months with the official reveal of the final production model--as final as it can be since Tesla makes improvements constantly instead of waiting for model years.

kussimek - 3/14/2017 1:45:09 PM

+1 Boost

That silver paint job is beautiful!

skytop - 3/14/2017 1:59:37 PM

+1 Boost

I am sure the victimized U.S. taxpayers are hugely delighted.

SanJoseDriver - 3/15/2017 7:00:55 PM

+3 Boost

The same tax payers that are giving huge subsidies/tax breaks to oil and gas companies that make what Tesla (and other EV companies) got look like a rounding error.

nguyenvuminh - 3/14/2017 2:26:06 PM

+2 Boost

You're right, the victimized taxpayers are very happy with GM, Chrysler (twice), corn farmers, etc. also.

SanJoseDriver - 3/15/2017 7:01:57 PM

+2 Boost

Agree, those are billions we will never get back. Tesla actually REPAID their loan and created 20,000 jobs.

Tiberius1701A - 3/14/2017 3:27:22 PM

+4 Boost

And yet, I could give a flying rat's ass.

SanJoseDriver - 3/15/2017 7:05:25 PM

+1 Boost

It would be ideal to have a buffer, but they could make do with the $3 billion or so they have right now. I think they will release more shares to raise 1-2 billion if the stock goes above $270.

SanJoseDriver - 3/21/2017 9:35:17 PM

+1 Boost

First off, I'm a Republican. Second, they EASILY raised the funds... even more than expected. Just because you are a Luddite, don't assume an innovative business is a ponzi scheme. Mobileye with pretty much 0 revenue was acquired by Intel for $15 billion. The amount of IP Tesla has is a factor into its evaluation and ability to raise funds. It is still very much a startup, and shouldn't be looked at in the same lens as a company that has been around for 100 years and is no longer growing.

MDarringer - 3/21/2017 10:33:03 PM

+1 Boost

@SanJoseDriver RINOs don't count.

MDarringer - 3/15/2017 7:30:11 PM

+1 Boost

Indeed it does.

SanJoseDriver - 3/21/2017 9:36:03 PM

+1 Boost

The glass roof is a guaranteed option from day 1.