The Tesla Model 3 delay is something GM could capitalize on as it prepares to enter the affordable EV market, according to a report. When it does enter the market though, a report predicts Tesla's affordable electric car could give BMW's 3 Series, used as its benchmark, a run for its money.
In 2017, both GM and Tesla are expected to unveil their entry in to the affordable EV market. However, the latter is "likely to stick to that time frame," according to Motley Fool.
While GM's Chevy Bolt prototypes are already testing, Tesla has yet to unveil one for the Model 3. Complicating matters for Tesla is their upcoming Model X SUV - due for deliveries later this year after it was moved from late 2013.
But the Tesla Model 3 delay doesn't make this a one-horse race. The Model S has enjoyed high demand. Even the delayed Model X has twice as many reservations as the Model S when it first came out.
"By contrast, GM has repeatedly missed sales goals with its plug-in hybrid Chevy Volt."
When it does come out, a report predicts the Model 3 can go up against its competition.
In his article in stock market website Seeking Alpha, Randy Carlson predicts three Model 3 variants. The entry-level "344" will reportedly be rear-wheel drive and have a 44kWh battery with a 220-mile range selling for $35,000. The "366D" will be the standard AWD version having a 66kWh battery with a 320-mile range at $44,000. The top-spec "P366D" will be the high-performance version 340 HP from two motors, a 300-mile range at $60,000.
Carlson estimated the Model 3's size as the BMW 320ix, based on CEO Elon Musk saying it will be 80 percent the size of a Model S, but with a longer wheelbase leading to a larger cabin. Comparing the Model 3 and the 3 Series, he said the former is better.
"The Model 3 saves energy, goes quicker and costs less than comparable BMW 3-Series cars."
Performance-wise, Carlson's predicted Model 3 specs put the EV ahead of the German cars. As Green Car Reports noted, the "P366D's" estimated 0-60 time of 3.1 seconds "blows away the BMW M3."
These are all speculations at this point. With the Tesla Model 3 delay, the Palo Alto, Calif.-based automaker isn't expected to spill more details about the upcoming EV.
Read Randy Carlson's detailed analysis here.
