Model 3 Performance: private-event images fuel pre-launch speculation

Musk first presented Model 3 on 31 March 2016, eight years before this report. Production began in July 2017, followed by a series of changes and eventually the Highland refresh, which was on sale when the article was written.

The refreshed Model 3 had initially arrived in rear-wheel-drive and Long Range all-wheel-drive versions. The anticipated Performance variant was still missing from the range.

Pre-launch reports suggested a more distinctive appearance, a dual-motor powertrain and possibly a new Ludicrous name, inferred from a rear badge. These were rumours about the forthcoming car. The original comparison with a three-motor predecessor was inaccurate and should not be treated as an established Model 3 specification.

Tesla had used Ludicrous branding for high-performance modes in earlier vehicles, before the Plaid models.

Several reports, including sightings shared on our social channels at the time, suggested that an unveiling was approaching.

Images circulating on X appeared to show a private event in Malibu attended by a small group, possibly including journalists and bloggers. The attendee list and purpose were not fully established by the photographs.

The first event images showed the vehicle covered by a sheet.

Further sightings included an uncovered car on US roads. They strengthened expectations of an imminent debut, but did not themselves confirm a date or final specification.