Tesla has boosted the WLTP range of its Model 3 sedan in Europe to 572 km, up from 534 km, simply by switching to new tyres. The company achieved this improvement without increasing battery size, highlighting the impact of lower rolling resistance on EV efficiency.
Tesla Improves Model 3 Range in Europe
Tesla has announced a significant range increase for the Model 3 in Europe, raising the official WLTP figure to 572 km (~355 miles) from the previous 534 km (~332 miles). This 7.1% improvement comes solely from fitting the vehicle with new, lower-rolling-resistance tyres.
The company confirmed the update in a post on X, stating: “Model 3 now comes with 572km of range (up from 534km previously), thanks to new tires”. Importantly, this change does not involve any increase in battery capacity.
Efficiency Gains Without Battery Changes
The range boost was achieved by reducing the Model 3’s energy consumption from 13 kWh to 12.2 kWh per 100 km. This efficiency gain translates to an additional 38 km (~24 miles) of range compared to the previous European figure.
Reports from Europe indicate that the new tyres will be fitted to Model 3 vehicles in left-hand-drive markets across the continent. However, it is not yet confirmed when or if these tyres will be introduced in other international markets.
Australian Model 3 and Model Y Updates
In Australia, the Model 3 Premium RWD currently starts at A$55,900 (~$40,204) before on-road costs and offers a WLTP range of 520 km (~323 miles). The Premium Long Range RWD variant, launched in Q4 2025, delivers over 750 km (~466 miles) of WLTP range and starts at A$61,900 (~$44,519) before on-road costs.
Tesla has sold 3,326 Model 3s in Australia so far in 2026, while Model Y sales have exceeded 25,000 units as of the end of July 2026. All new Model 3 and Model Y purchases in Australia now come with a 5-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, an increase from the previous 4-year or 80,000 km coverage.
Why this matters
Tesla’s ability to increase the Model 3’s range through tyre technology alone demonstrates the importance of efficiency improvements beyond battery upgrades. For European customers, this means more driving range without any change in price or battery size.
The update also highlights how incremental changes in EV components can deliver meaningful real-world benefits, supporting the ongoing push for greater electric vehicle adoption.
What this means for buyers
European buyers of the Tesla Model 3 will benefit from increased range on new vehicles without paying extra or waiting for a new battery pack. Australian buyers should monitor for similar updates, as Tesla often rolls out improvements globally over time.
With the enhanced warranty and strong sales figures, the Model 3 and Model Y remain competitive choices for those considering an EV in Australia.
Key Specs
- European WLTP Range (new): 572 km (~355 miles)
- European WLTP Range (previous): 534 km (~332 miles)
- Energy Consumption (Europe): 12.2 kWh/100 km
- Australian Model 3 Premium RWD Price: A$55,900 (~$40,204) before on-road costs
- Australian Model 3 Premium RWD Range: 520 km (~323 miles)
- Australian Model 3 Premium Long Range RWD Price: A$61,900 (~$44,519) before on-road costs
- Australian Model 3 Premium Long Range RWD Range: over 750 km (~466 miles)
- Warranty (Australia): 5-year unlimited-kilometre
Source
Images sourced from: arenaev.com, unpluggedperformance.com, thedriven.io
