Tesla Model 3 Wait Time: How Long Will It Take?
The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric compact fastback sedan that has been one of the most popular and critically-acclaimed EVs since its debut in 2017. The car combines impressive performance and a long range at an accessible price point that separates it from other electric vehicles.
The car’s lower price point allows drivers access to the luxury status the Tesla brand provides without investing in more expensive versions such as the Tesla Model X and the Tesla Model Y. Unfortunately, Tesla is currently experiencing delays with both of these models, in addition to the Tesla Model S Plaid.
As of this writing, the Tesla Model 3 wait time is three months from purchase to delivery, according to the Tesla website. However, these estimates are believed to be optimistic at best. Some reports indicate that drivers who order a new Tesla will have to wait up to seven months for their vehicle to arrive.
In this article, we’ll survey the basic specs of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 and explore the reasons why delivery estimates are so far out as of March 2022.
About the Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 packs impressive contemporary style with tremendous acceleration and a luxuriously-designed interior. It also features a zero-emissions, all-electric powertrain.
Trims, Pricing, and Range
The 2022 Tesla Model 3 comes in three trims. The base-model Model 3, powered by a rear-wheel drive powertrain, starts at $40,690. Meanwhile, the Model 3 Long Range has a starting MSRP of $46,690, and the Model 3 Performance starts at $54,690, and both come with all-wheel drive powertrains.
The Tesla Model 3 offers a tremendous all-electric range regardless of which trim level you choose. The entry-level Model 3 offers 267 miles of range on a full charge, the Model 3 Long Range offers 334 miles, and the Model 3 Performance offers 315 miles.
Performance Specs
All three trims of the Tesla Model 3 feature impressive peformance capability:
- Tesla Model 3 Base: 140 mph top speed; 0-to-60 mph in 5.8 seconds
- Tesla Model 3 Long Range: 145 mph top speed; 0-to-60 mph in 4.2 seconds
- Tesla Model 3 Performance: 162 mph top speed; 0-to-60 mph in 3.1 seconds
Interior Specs
The interiors for all three Tesla Model 3 trims are similar. Available with either black or white vegan faux leather upholstery, each features Tesla’s trademark expansive glass roof that offers a near-seamless view of the sky above. In addition, the glass roof blocks ultraviolet rays to reduce heat and glare.
Cargo and Passenger Room
All three vehicles offer a maximum seating capacity of five. Regardless of trim, the car provides 19.8 cubic feet of cargo space with five passengers and 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded.
Tesla Model 3 Wait Times
Few automakers have escaped the supply chain and production issues caused by the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, and Telsa is no exception. Pandemic-related production and delivery issues in China and other issues in the United States have contributed to the long wait times that new Tesla 3 customers are presently experiencing.
Reasons for Tesla Model 3 Wait Times
There are several reasons that the production of Telsa Model 3s has been delayed as of March 2022. In a 2021 earnings call with Tesla investors, company CEO Elon Musk laid out details about the many factors the automaker was dealing with in terms of production and supply-chain issues. They include:
- Scarcity of Materials: A global semiconductor chip shortage has caused production disruptions for automakers worldwide. Semiconductors (also commonly referred to as integrated circuit) is a microchip that partially conducts electricity. In automobile production, semiconductors play a crucial role in vehicle electrification, driver’s assistance systems, Bluetooth and internet connectivity, and the integration and response of safety systems.
- Shipping Delays: Supply chain issues like a global shipping container-ship shortage set many industries back at the start of 2022. This increased shipping costs while leading to shortages of goods and an inability to get to their delivery points on time. Congested ports in states like California have dogged numerous industries, as California alone brings in about one-third of all US imports.
- Demand: As of this writing, Tesla continues to receive new car orders every day despite delays. Tesla has not discouraged people from pre-ordering their vehicles as estimated delivery dates get longer and longer. Prospective customers should frequently visit the Tesla website for any new press releases or updates about the manufacturing and delivery of new models.
In the summer of 2021, Tesla rewrote its electric vehicle software to accommodate new semiconductor chips the company acquired. But this was unfortunately only a temporary solution to the company’s production and distribution delays.
In February of 2022, Tesla admitted that it stopped production on the Model X for eight months while the company focused on the production of the Model S. As a result, the company is likely to stop taking orders for the Model X until 2023.
Patience is the only true solution for drivers who are eager to get behind the wheel of a 2022 Tesla Model 3, thanks to the company’s numerous shipping and distribution delays. But if you simply cannot wait for Tesla to navigate global supply chain and materials problems, you do have a few options.
Ways to Avoid Tesla Model 3 Wait Times
Tesla is currently building new vehicle production facilities in Berlin, Germany, and Austin, Texas, and they’re nearing completion. These facilities will join those in Fremont, California, and Shanghai, China, and they’re expected to nearly double the automaker’s vehicle production capabilities.
Not willing to wait for a new Tesla? You can always choose another new EV. That said, many automakers are experiencing new vehicle delays as of this writing. As a result, the few new EV models that are readily available on the market are likely in low demand.
Drivers can also explore the current plug-in hybrid market to take advantage of the increased efficiency and lower fuel costs of a partially electric vehicle. In some circumstances, taking over another driver’s existing Tesla lease is also an option.
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Drivers interested in a short-term solution to their electric vehicle needs can use Compare.com to shop affordable pre-owned EVs right in their own neighborhood. From pre-owned Tesla’s and pre-owned hybrid and all-electric vehicles from all well-known automakers, it’s the ideal tool to shop for a critically-acclaimed EV while bypassing the wait times that come with buying new.
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