The Tesla Cybertruck has unexpectedly gained immense popularity in China, a country traditionally not inclined towards pickup trucks. In 2023, with a record-breaking 30.09 million units sold in the Chinese auto market, only approximately 512,000 were pickup trucks, constituting merely 1.7% of total sales.

This limited interest in pickup trucks in China can be attributed to various factors. Pickup trucks are categorized as light trucks, subjecting them to restrictions such as mandatory use of the rightmost "slow" lane on highways, a speed limit of 100 kph (62 mph), and a mandatory scrapping policy after 15 years. Additionally, certain Chinese cities impose restrictions on pickups entering urban areas.

Given this context, the introduction of the Tesla Cybertruck in China, where it is not currently available for purchase, might seem counterintuitive. However, videos from the Cybertruck's multi-city tour in China tell a different story. Social media posts depict large crowds gathering around the Cybertruck, particularly in Shanghai and Nanjing Xinjiekou Deji Plaza. In Shanghai, people formed long lines to catch a glimpse of the all-electric pickup truck. Despite pickup trucks not being popular in China, the Cybertruck has become an instant celebrity during its tour. Did you think the cybertruck was going to be this popular in China? Let me know in the comments below!

The overwhelming response to the Cybertruck in China could be attributed to several factors. Tesla enthusiasts, like Wall Street veteran and The Future Fund Managing Partner Gary Black, have suggested the existence of a "halo effect" surrounding the Cybertruck. The current reception in China, where the vehicle is not yet available for purchase, supports the notion that this halo effect is indeed in play.

Whether the Cybertruck will be a success remains to be seen, as it continues to evoke both admiration and criticism, especially in its anticipated primary market, the United States. Nevertheless, the strong public reaction and evident support for the vehicle in China underscore the impact of its unconventional design, suggesting that the Cybertruck's appeal extends beyond traditional electric or conventional pickup trucks.

Upgraded Tesla Model 3 Performance poised for Q2 launch - An upgraded version of the Tesla Model 3 Performance is set to launch in the second quarter of 2024, according to a recent report from China. Production is expected to take place at both the Fremont Factory in California and Gigafactory Shanghai in China. The enhanced Tesla Model 3 was first unveiled in China in late August of last year and was subsequently launched in North America earlier this month. However, during these launches, only two variants were introduced: the base Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) version and the mid-tier Long Range Dual Motor All Wheel Drive (AWD) variant. The Model 3 Performance was notably absent from both events.

Despite its absence, sightings of the top-tier all-electric sedan have been reported in the United States. These sightings revealed features such as a dedicated front splitter, a more aggressive rear spoiler, special Sport bucket seats, and a potential Ludicrous Mode badge at the rear.

According to a recent report from local Chinese media outlet Dongchedi, the upgraded Tesla Model 3 Performance is expected to hit the Chinese market in the second quarter, with a price tag close to RMB 400,000 (approximately $55,730). The upgraded version will come with new rims, a revamped braking system featuring larger brake discs and improved tires. Mass production is slated to begin at the end of March at both the Fremont Factory and Gigafactory Shanghai.

Anticipation for the upgraded Model 3 Performance is high, particularly given its track capabilities. Previous statements from Tesla Australia chief engineer and Model 3 program veteran Daniel Ho hinted at the forthcoming performance car being "pretty special," as Tesla aimed to optimize its capabilities following the release of the previous generation Model 3 Performance.

Tesla Supercharger Network voted as best charging network in Europe

Chargemap, a benchmark app for electric vehicle (EV) charging, has unveiled its rankings of the top electric vehicle charging networks in Europe. According to feedback from the app's users, the Tesla Supercharger Network stands out as providing the most exceptional charging experience for EV owners across Europe.

In a recent blog post detailing its findings, Chargemap highlighted the significant contribution of over 112,000 users who shared their charging experiences, resulting in more than 390,000 ratings on the platform. These reviews were collected from April 20, 2023, to December 31, 2023. The study evaluated various factors including users' overall charging experience, the reliability of charging infrastructure, and the perceived value for money provided by each network.

The Tesla Supercharger Network's exceptional performance was recently highlighted by Tesla Europe & Middle East's official account on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. According to the rankings released by Chargemap, the Tesla Supercharger Network secured the top spot as the best electric vehicle charging network in Europe, followed by Fastned and Electra. Carrefour and Chargy rounded up the top five according to feedback from Chargemap users.

Notably, the Tesla Supercharger Network received high marks for infrastructure reliability and value for money. It ranked second in terms of infrastructure reliability, trailing only Fastned, and secured the fourth position in terms of value for money, with the French Orléans Métropole network, NW IECharge, and the Lidl network taking the top spots.

The Tesla Supercharger Network has seen significant growth, boasting a total of 5,952 stations worldwide with 54,892 connectors, as reported in the company's Q4 and FY 2023 Update Letter. Additionally, Supercharger installations are increasing, particularly with the adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS). This expansion extends beyond Europe and the United States, reaching countries like Australia. According to Next System's Australian Electric Vehicle Public Fast Charger Report, Tesla's Supercharger V3 Network contributed approximately 60% of all new charging capacity in Australia during the fourth quarter of 2023, solidifying its presence in the region.

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