In 2025, Tesla has three significant plans for China: 1) launching the new Model Y, 2) implementing Full Self-Driving (FSD), and 3) introducing its sixth mass-produced model, internally codenamed Redwood, aimed at the low-price market. During a recent investment conference, Tesla confirmed two crucial details: the Model Q will be released in the first half of next year, and its price in the North American market will be US$25,000, roughly equivalent to 180,000 yuan. Our primary concern is whether Tesla's budget car, shrouded in secrecy for nearly three years, will come equipped with cutting-edge technology. Will its localized price drop below 180,000 yuan?

With a body length under 4 meters, will the front suspension abandon the double wishbone design?

While Tesla has officially announced its release before the second quarter of 2025, the latest spy shots are limited. However, it's almost certain that the car's overall design will deviate from the current Model Y language, likely adopting the refreshed Model 3 style, including sleek headlights and a flat front bonnet. The body is confirmed to be a hatchback. According to recent news, the Model Q is 15% smaller than the Model 3 and at least 30% lighter in curb weight. This suggests a length under 4 meters, a wheelbase of about 2.6 meters, and a weight reduction of nearly 528kg compared to the Model 3, possibly weighing around 1.2 tons. This performance closely mirrors that of the 2024 electric MINI COOPER.

This raises two questions: How spacious is the Model Q? Is it a hatchback version of the Model 3? Firstly, to maximize interior space in a compact A-class hatchback, the most effective approach is to position the front and rear axles close to the vehicle's extremities. The four-wheel-corner design enhances both front and rear legroom. Additionally, the Model Q's design from the B-pillar to the C-pillar incorporates elements of the Model Y's fastback concept, with slightly slanted pillars ensuring ample headroom. Thus, the Model Q's design combines features of both the Model 3 and Model Y. Considering its dimensions, the new car's space performance will likely surpass that of the 2024 electric MINI COOPER.

Secondly, despite sharing Tesla's electric platform and potentially high parts compatibility, the Model Q is not a hatchback variant of the Model 3. Early mule car spy shots reveal a ground clearance unlike that of a sedan, with a front-low, rear-high stance hinting at a crossover feel. However, closer inspection of the front and rear wheel arches and tires suggests the rear suspension isn't in a normal state, indicating the mule car is likely undergoing chassis testing. Could the Model Q switch suspensions? Currently, all four Tesla models use a front double wishbone and rear multi-link suspension. For the budget-conscious Model Q, the rear suspension will likely continue with a multi-link setup. Considering Tesla's one-piece die-casting technology, both the Model 3 and Model Y's rear floor assemblies are die-cast in a single piece, including motor and rear suspension mold data reusable for the Model Q, reducing manufacturing costs. Moreover, due to the Model Q's more compact size, Tesla might integrate the current three-piece structure into a single vehicle die-casting. However, with a smaller chassis, will there be enough space for a front double wishbone?

Double wishbone suspensions are more expensive to manufacture and maintain compared to MacPherson structures. Thus, cost-conscious Model Q has a reason to opt for MacPherson. Furthermore, double wishbones enhance stability and handling. Technically, optimizing front double wishbones involves aligning chassis size and lengthening the lower control arm, as seen in Rolls-Royce and Bentley. A longer double wishbone ensures stability by distributing stresses along multiple axes. The shorter the lower wishbone, the more direct the stress on the wheel, accelerating tire wear. Even with bushing solutions, the ride can be stiff over bumps. This explains why larger vehicles often use double wishbones.

Therefore, the Model Q's front suspension might switch to MacPherson. The radiator tank concept remains unchanged, normally providing a front trunk. The subframe narrows with the chassis's lateral space, allowing a shorter lower control arm. Additionally, an all-aluminum material and double-ball joint solution can mimic MacPherson handling and comfort. Thus, it's more accurate to say the suspension change is based on the Model Q's dimensions and positioning, rather than merely cost-cutting.

With a 100km shorter range than the Model 3, could the Model Q forgo a new motor?

Tesla announced the new car will have a 53kWh lithium iron phosphate battery with over 500km range. Rumors suggest a 75kWh battery option. The 53kWh battery is Tesla's smallest capacity to date. Compared to the domestic Model 3's 60kWh M3P lithium iron phosphate battery with a CLTC range of 606km, the 7kWh difference translates to over 100km less range. Does the Model Q have a more powerful motor than the Model 3?

To answer, consider curb weight. The 60kWh Model 3 weighs 1760kg. With a 30% weight reduction, the Model Q is 528kg lighter. If it uses the same 3D7 motor (194kW) as the Model 3 Standard Range Rear-Wheel Drive, its power consumption per hundred kilometers will be lower than the Model 3's 11.3kWh/100km. Considering battery capacity, the Model Q's energy consumption would theoretically decrease by about 3kWh/100km. Considering driving scenarios, wind resistance, temperature, etc., the 53kWh battery's theoretical maximum range is roughly 500km. Thus, the difference likely stems from battery energy density.

This indirectly confirms the Model Q will likely use the 3D7 motor. However, a new motor isn't ruled out. Considering Tesla's existing motors, the 3D3 (137kW) is the least powerful, while the 3D6 (220kW) and 4D2 (265kW) are more powerful. For long range and low energy consumption, high-power motors aren't suitable. Thus, the Model Q might use the 3D7 for rear-wheel drive and a combination of 3D3 and 3D7 for all-wheel drive. However, the Model Q's cramped front and rear axle space raises questions about motor fit. Alternatively, it might adopt a new, smaller, integrated motor. However, with volume constraints and the need for balanced energy consumption, the motor's power will be low. To date, no new Tesla motor has been announced, suggesting the first option is more likely, especially for cost control through shared components.

Reviewing the technology, the Model Q's budget approach involves sharing and integrating existing technologies. If fully integrated die-casting is used, welds and wiring harnesses will be further reduced, aiming to cut costs. With an overseas price near 180,000 yuan, localization could lower the threshold to 150,000 yuan. Notably, the Model Q also has the HW4.0 chip and can use FSD V13. At this price, the closest competitor offering advanced driving assistance is XPeng's MONA M03, specifically the AI Hawk Smart Driving version priced at 155,800 yuan. The next closest is the electric MINI. Thus, if FSD arrives in China with the Model Q, competitors at the same price point will need new advantages in price or SKU. A new price war might hinge on Tesla's pricing strategy for this model.