There’s the old saying that loose lips sink ships; lucky that’s not true for Tesla. With eyes and ears everywhere, the Tesla Community has gathered more information about the soon to be released, Model 3 Ludicrous. Yes, Ludicrous, not Performance, as we’ve all but confirmed for weeks. But this leak is more than just the new name and badge.
A source spoke to VehicleSuggest and proved their credibility by producing what appears to be the new Ludicrous badge. We saw the same badging on the cars used in a promotional shoot in Spain.
The insider, apparently from Tesla's China Research and Development team, told the website that the 20 engineers from the Fremont factory recently visited Tesla’s China facilities to discuss and fix any issues with the Model 3 Ludicrous. The car has been spotted around California for more than a month, with its giveaway disguise of capes on the front and back. Presumably, the testing has revealed a few more issues that must be combed through. Problems that have been identified include integrating a new motor system and fine-tuning the new suspension system.
Two or Three Motors?
The 2024 Model 3 was recently featured on Jay Leno’s Garage. Leno, a long-time Model S owner, was impressed by the new model, praising its design by saying, “It’s really perfect. I actually love the size of this.” When Lars Moravy inquired if Leno had any interest in purchasing one, Leno expressed enthusiasm for a triple-motor version, noting, “I tell you, this with a triple engine in it would be a killer. It would be lighter than the S, and it would be faster.” However, Moravy pointed out the potential challenges in accommodating such an upgrade, responding, “It would be fun, man, but it would be hard to fit.”
It appears the triple motor is not happening. The insider stated that the Model 3 Ludicrous will feature a dual-motor setup with improved performance. Although the exact performance metrics remain under wraps, the anticipation is that it will surpass the already impressive acceleration of the Model 3 Performance variant, which reaches 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds.
Release Date
According to the insider, the launch of this high-performance variant is targeted for May, with a simultaneous reveal in both the USA and China. By the way, Leno wanted Lars to state the horsepower on the new Model 3. He says it is 400 horsepower for the dual-motor variant (updated). Imagine a 600-horsepower Model 3? That is Ludicrous. However, with all signs pointing to two motors, it will be interesting to see what Tesla does to improve this already awesome car.
