Model 3 to Feature ~50- and ~75-kWh Battery Packs

We already got a bit of a preview of what to expect from the Model 3 in terms of battery capacity and range via EPA documents. Now, an investor conference call with Tesla reveals even more specific info on the battery packs the Model 3 will use.

This information comes from someone who was on the call leaking it to the EV specialists at Electrek. According to the report, Elon Musk told investors the Model 3’s base battery pack will be “just over 50 kWh,” which will give it about 220 miles of range. He also said the “long range” Model 3 will use a roughly 75 kWh battery for a 310-mile range.

The report continues, claiming Tesla plans to push sales of the smaller, less expensive battery. Why? Well, a little thing called supply. Tesla fears a bottleneck in battery production could slow the release of the Model 3, but it if can sell more of the easier-to-manufacture 50-kWh models, it can dramatically reduce the strain on the supply side.

While this is all still very early speculation based on one conference call, the fact that it supposedly came straight from Elon Musk’s mouth gives it some legitimacy.

We’ll continue monitoring the progress of the Model 3 and bring you more details as they become available.