High Demand for Tesla Model 3 LR RWD in China
The Tesla Model 3 continues to be a popular choice in China, with the Long Range Rear Wheel Drive (LR RWD) variant selling out for January 2026. New orders for this model now have an estimated delivery date of February 2026, highlighting the strong demand for this all-electric sedan in the Chinese market. Despite facing competition from more affordable rivals like the Xiaomi SU7 and the Model Y crossover, the Model 3 has managed to maintain impressive sales figures.
Priced at RMB 259,500 ($36,810), the Model 3 LR RWD is the second-lowest-priced trim in Tesla China’s lineup of four variants. This follows a trend seen with the Model 3 Performance, which is currently the most expensive option available. The delivery timeframe for the LR RWD aligns with the latest updates from Tesla China, as reported by CNEV Post.
While the LR RWD and Performance models now have an estimated delivery period of February 2026, the base RWD version starting at RMB 235,500 and the LR AWD variant priced from RMB 285,500 continue to list estimated delivery times of 4-6 weeks. Tesla China is actively promoting in-stock Model 3 vehicles and encouraging buyers to choose inventory units for delivery before the end of the year.
Model Y Delivery Delays and Policy Changes
Similar to the Model 3, the Model Y is also experiencing delays in delivery timelines in China. Customized variants of the Model Y now show February 2026 as their estimated delivery date, except for the entry-level version which still lists January 2026. Tesla has been advising customers to prioritize purchasing inventory vehicles since November to ensure timely deliveries by the end of the year.
The urgency to receive deliveries before the end of the year is driven by upcoming changes in government incentives. In 2026, China’s new energy vehicle purchase tax exemption will be reduced, potentially leading to higher tax costs for customers who take delivery next year. Therefore, customers are keen on receiving their vehicles before the policy changes come into effect.
Despite a slight decline in retail sales year over year, Tesla remains a strong player in the Chinese market. In November, the company recorded retail sales of 73,145 vehicles, representing a marginal decrease of 0.47%. From January to November, Tesla’s retail sales in China totaled 531,855 units, marking a 7.37% drop compared to the previous year.