Surging Demand
Chinese buyers eager for Tesla’s Model 3 Performance face an unusually long wait. Delivery estimates have now slipped to February 2026, underscoring the car’s popularity in the world’s most competitive EV market. Despite dozens of local rivals offering cheaper electric sedans, Tesla’s high performance model continues to attract strong demand.
Competitive Landscape
Analysts note that while competitors are cutting prices, Tesla is focusing on speed, styling, and brand appeal, a formula that still resonates with Chinese consumers. The extended delivery timeline suggests Tesla’s Shanghai factory is operating at full capacity, challenging the narrative that Tesla has lost ground in China.
Production Milestone
At the same time, Tesla has just hit 4 million China made vehicles, with the milestone Model Y rolling off the line at its Shanghai Gigafactory, the company’s largest plant worldwide. According to CnEVPost, it took only 14 months to go from 3 to 4 million units, nearly one Tesla every 10 seconds around the clock.
Shanghai’s Role
Shanghai has quietly become the heart of Tesla’s global production, faster and more efficient than any other site. For a company that did not build a single car in China five years ago, the scale is remarkable. From zero to 4 million in record time, Tesla shows no signs of easing off the pedal.
Consumer Choice
For many buyers, the wait is worth it. As one analyst put it, “You don’t wait 14 months for a car unless it’s worth it.” The surge in orders and production milestones highlight Tesla’s ability to maintain its premium positioning even in a crowded market.
Source: CnEVPost