Tesla's Model 3 Standard Brings FM Radio to Europe | Carscoops

      Tesla has rolled out a budget-friendly, less luxurious Model 3 Standard in Europe, priced at €36,990, which is nearly 20 percent less than the next trim level and lacks the radio feature available in US models.

      The Standard version takes one second longer to accelerate to 62 mph and has a reduced range of 134 miles compared to its higher-tier counterparts. The Model Y Standard has been available in the EU since October.

      In an effort to revitalize slowing sales, Tesla has introduced a no-frills Model 3 Standard to its updated European lineup, following its debut in the US. The entry-level Model 3 in Europe includes a feature that US buyers do not receive: FM radio. However, this might not be missed as radios have become less significant since the Ford administration.

      In the US, only the Model 3 Premium and above include a radio, a choice made primarily for cost savings rather than any assumption that radios are a luxury. Notably, there is no AM radio version, and only the European model features digital radio.

      A 2023 study suggests that eliminating the radio can save Tesla between $50 and $70 per vehicle since it no longer needs to prevent radio waves from interference caused by the electric motors.

      The EU Model 3 Standard (€36,990 in Germany) otherwise mirrors the US version. It has a smaller battery in comparison to the €44,990 Premium, resulting in a WLTP range that drops from 466 miles (750 km) to 332 miles (532 km), and it takes 6.2 seconds to reach 62 mph instead of 5.2 seconds.

      The rear touchscreen is no longer included, and alloy wheels have been substituted with 18-inch steel wheels and plastic hub caps. Features such as ambient lighting, a rear touchscreen, an electrically adjustable steering column, and heated rear seats are removed. The seating is simplified with basic cloth upholstery, and the audio system has been downgraded from nine speakers to seven.

      Another major change is that the Standard model is equipped with basic passive shock absorbers, while the Premium variant utilizes more advanced frequency-dependent shocks for a better ride quality.

      However, like the US Standard model, the European base trim keeps its panoramic glass roof. The Model Y Standard also retains its glass roof, although Tesla inconveniently covers it from within to remind buyers of their choice not to upgrade to the Premium version.

      The base Model Y, which also loses front and rear light bars and alloy wheels, is now available in the UK for £41,990, in addition to the EU. As of now, the Model 3 Standard has not been launched in Britain.