Tesla(US:TSLA) Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2026-01-15 13:42Core Viewpoint - Tesla is speculated to introduce a "budget version" of its Model Y in the Chinese market, following the appearance of related images on its official website, which have since been replaced, and the lack of official confirmation from Tesla China [2][4]. Group 1: Product Details - A new model, potentially the "budget version" of Model 3, has been listed in the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) vehicle directory, indicating its entry into the Chinese market [5]. - The "budget version" Model 3 is expected to feature a 52.9 kWh battery with a CLTC range of 480 kilometers, significantly lower than the current rear-wheel drive Model 3's range of 634 kilometers [5]. - The U.S. version of the "budget version" Model 3 has around 20 configuration reductions compared to existing models, including the removal of certain features like the continuous light strip and dual-layer soundproof glass [5]. Group 2: Pricing Strategy - Tesla has not yet announced the price for the upcoming Model 3 Standard Range Upgrade version in China, but it is speculated to be significantly lower than the U.S. price of $36,900 (approximately 258,000 RMB) to align with the "budget" positioning [6]. - Market analysts predict that the starting price for the rumored "budget version" Model 3 in China could drop below 200,000 RMB, which would create a new price benchmark and expand market coverage [7]. Group 3: Market Context - Tesla's introduction of a "budget version" is a strategic response to declining sales growth in both global and Chinese markets, with a projected 8.6% decrease in global deliveries to 1.636 million units in 2025 and a 4.8% decline in China to 625,600 units [8]. - The majority of new energy vehicle sales in China are concentrated in the 150,000 to 200,000 RMB price range, with 1.51 million units sold in the first half of 2025, indicating a significant market opportunity for Tesla if it enters this segment [8]. Group 4: Long-term Strategy - The launch of a lower-priced model may also support Tesla's long-term software and ecosystem strategy by increasing vehicle ownership, allowing for more data collection to enhance its autonomous driving systems and build a larger potential user base for future subscription services [9].