10 differences between Tesla Model 2 and Model 3

For eco-friendly buyers, the Model 2’s compact size and new offerings will make it an attractive option.

In Tesla’s ambitious plans for the future outlined in its press statement titled “Tesla Master Plan Part 3,” the company mentions a compact vehicle in the works alongside commercial vans and short-range and long-range heavy-duty trucks and sets its sights on a lifetime sales target of 42 million units for the compact vehicle. Rumor mills have named it the Tesla Model 2. The Model 2 will differentiate itself from its sibling, the Model 3 with its size, which will make it perfect for maneuvering city streets and tight parking spots.

The size reduction will bring benefits like enhanced agility and improved urban drivability. Also, while the Model 3 utilizes a 75 kWh battery pack, the Model 2 will most likely be fitted with a smaller 53 kWh battery pack. Despite the reduced capacity, the Model 2 will still use the same lithium iron phosphate battery technology found in the Model 3. It might even feature the groundbreaking 4680 battery cells. This will ensure efficient energy usage and a reasonable electric range. Tesla’s vision for making EVs more accessible as an eco-friendly option is evident in the Model 2. It’s compact size and new offerings will ensure it’s a cost-effective and fascinating option for eco-friendly buyers.

10 It Would Be Much Cheaper

Rumor mills have the highly anticipated Tesla Model 2 coming in at a starting price tag of approximately $25,000, similar to the $26,300 of the Volkswagen ID.2, and significantly lower than the Tesla Model 3’s rear-wheel drive configuration’s MSRP of $40,240. This price difference is considerable and could have it being termed the Toyota Corolla of EVs.

Tesla Model 3 Price Breakdown

This will play a long part in delivering Tesla’s 42 million sales dream. With its lower price point, the Tesla Model 2 will cater to a wider market, which will include afore-time excluded individuals looking for a budget-friendly, eco-friendly option. The competitive pricing will also position it as the best option to rival other compact electric vehicles available in the market as it will be a Tesla offering Tesla-esque features at a more affordable rate.

9 The Model 2 Will Be A Compact Vehicle

The Tesla Model 2 being a compact vehicle will mean there would be a noticeable difference in size between it and the midsize Tesla Model 3. Being smaller than its sibling, it will be perfect for maneuvering city streets and navigating tight parking spots. Its compact size will offer enhanced agility while improving urban drivability and primarily cater to buyers who drive in congested urban environments.

The Tesla Model 3 strikes a balance between size and functionality since it provides ample seating and cargo space and still maintains a sleek and stylish design. The Model 2 will be light on space and versatility. In the end, it will be Tesla’s newest offering catering to different needs, ensuring that every preference and lifestyle has a suitable electric vehicle option available.

8 A Smaller Battery Pack And Lower Range

Aside from size, a significant difference between the Tesla Model 2 and the Tesla Model 3 will be their battery packs and range capabilities. The Model 2 will probably be equipped with a smaller 53 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack than the Model 3’s 75 kWh battery pack, resulting in the Model 2 having a significantly reduced range than the 272 miles the base Model 3 boasts on a full charge.

Tesla Model 3 Battery Ranges

It could be fitted with the same 4680 battery cells used in the Model 3 since Tesla is making investments in the production of the technology, which offers improved range and performance. This may not bridge the gap in range between the Model 2 and 3, but it could make it the more appealing option among other compact EVs for those seeking an affordable EV with an extended driving range.

7 Won’t Be As Spacious As The Model 3

Another noticeable difference between the compact Tesla Model 2 and the midsize Tesla Model 3 will be the reduced interior space in the former. This will be primarily due to the Model 2’s smaller wheelbase compared to the Model 3. Similar to the Volkswagen ID.2, a wheelbase of approximately 102 inches is expected, a reduction from the 113.2 inches of the Model 3. The reduced wheelbase of the Model 2 will undoubtedly translate to less space in the cabin.

While the Model 3 is relatively comfortable for small families and passengers to stretch out comfortably, the compact nature of the Model 2 may make it slightly more cramped, especially for taller individuals. Ultimately, the trade-off between size and interior comfort will be a choice that potential buyers will consider based on their specific needs and preferences.

6 Lower Power Output But Optimized Performance

The Tesla Model 2 is expected to be more budget-friendly and have considerably lower power output than its midsize sibling, the Tesla Model 3. With the Model 3 boasting impressive acceleration times and top speed, the Model 2’s performance metrics will be more modest. The lower power output of the Model 2 will translate to a lower 0-60 mph acceleration time and lower top speed than the Model 3.

Tesla Model 3 Performance Specs

Tesla is yet to give exact specifications, and many factors will influence the final vehicle’s performance capabilities, like its curb weight and drivetrain configuration. The Model 2 base model will be offered in rear-wheel drive configuration like the Model 3 and Y vehicles, but higher trims will offer Tesla’s customary all-wheel drive configuration and better acceleration, top speed and battery range. A performance version should also be expected.

5 Expected To Appeal To A Broader Demographic

For the Model 2, Tesla’s expected 42 million sales figure indicates that either it would resonate with a larger market segment, which could potentially be due to its practicality, value for money, and the growing global demand for compact electric vehicles, or Tesla would produce and market it to a larger demographic than the Model 3.

Tesla Expected Sales Figures

The lower price point of the Model 2 will make it significantly more affordable and accessible to a wider range of consumers. Its compact size and maneuverability will also be ideal for urban commuting, navigating tight city streets and parking where the larger Model 3 might be less efficient. The smaller overall size will also translate to better fuel efficiency, making it a more economical choice for daily driving, as the Model 3 is more energy-efficient than the Model S.

4 Sleeker And Probably More Aerodynamic Exterior

The exterior design of Tesla vehicles is known to have sleek and futuristic esthetics. The compact Tesla Model 2 will be no exception and will boast unique features that will set it apart from others on the market. In terms of aerodynamics, both Models 2 and 3 will focus on maximizing efficiency and minimizing drag like every other Tesla.

However, the Model 2 could be more streamlined, with a smaller and more curved nose and roofline, unlike the Model 3’s more prominent front fascia. The contours of both models will vary as well. With the Model 3 receiving a recent refresh with the Highland update, Tesla improved the design above the previous. The Model 2 on the other hand will build on the design of the Model 3 as the Model 3 did on the Model S.

3Reduction In Overall Weight And Improved Efficiency

The compact Tesla Model 2 will be significantly lighter than its midsize counterpart, the Tesla Model 3. This can be attributed to both its smaller size and the implementation of a smaller 53 kWh battery pack. The smaller dimensions of the Model 2 will result in a lighter overall structure and allow for greater energy efficiency, meaning the Model 2 would require less energy to move and will result in a longer driving range per kWh compared to the Model 3.

The smaller battery pack would require less energy to charge, reducing the time spent at a charging station and decreasing the overall energy consumption. The supposed reduced weight of the Model 2 suggests that it would offer more impressive energy efficiency, making it more attractive to urban commuters seeking to make their transportation greener and more cost-effective.

2 The Model 2 Will Feel Less Premium

For the Tesla Model 2 to be a more cost-effective and sustainable option compared to its midsize counterpart, the Model 3, will have to be fitted with less luxurious fittings, which will be designed to cut down costs. To achieve this, the Model 2 will need to feature a simpler interior, with less emphasis on high-end luxury fittings, reducing production costs to make the car more affordable to a wider range of customers.

This will lead Tesla to sourcing for more sustainable materials during the manufacturing process. All the same, the car is expected to offer the same innovative design, technology, and safety features the Model 3 is known for with more accessible options that appeal to budget-conscious consumers. A budget Tesla will have to look the part on the interior also.

1Keeping With Tradition, Depreciation Rate Should Be Lower

Tesla vehicles and known to be more technologically advanced with every new version released. This would mean that at the time of the release of the Tesla Model 2, it will be the most technologically advanced Tesla available on the market. This played a massive role in the Model 3 and Model Y having massive popularity over the Model S and X, since they both came in a more advanced package than the earlier siblings.

If that’s the case, with the Model 3 posting a depreciation rate of 21 percent after five years, and the Model S posting a depreciation rate of 35 percent, it is safe to assume that the more efficient, cheaper, and more fun-to-drive Model 2 would boast an even more impressive depreciation rate, which will potentially result in a better resale value.