Tesla has developed a new firmware update for European Model 3 Long Range models that will allow them to be charged at 200kW – making it the fastest-charging car currently on sale in the UK.

The electric saloon has been available to order in the UK since May 1, with prices starting from £38,050 (Rs 33 lakh) for the entry-level Standard Range Plus, which has a WLTP-estimated range of 258 miles (415km).

The Long Range Performance model starts from £48,590 (Rs 49 lakh) and can reach 329 miles (529 km) on a single charge. Deliveries are due to begin in June.

With the firmware update, Long Range models can charge at up to 200kW at third party charging stations with the technology, which is currently being rolled out by various firms. Tesla is also developing a fast-charging V3 Supercharger network for Europe, which will allow the cars to be charged at speeds of 250kW.

Both the Standard Range Plus and Long Range models come with aerodynamically optimised 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 20-inch alloys available as an option on the Performance version. Prices include the UK government plug-in car grant.

The top-end performance version, which has a 162mph (260kph) top speed and can manage 0-62mph (0-100kph) in 3.2sec, starts at £56,900 (Rs 50 lakh). It rides on 20in alloy wheels and includes a Premium interior package, which includes satellite-view navigation with live traffic, a premium 14-speaker audio system and in-car music and media streaming.

Tesla's 'full self-driving' autonomous functionality, which is due to roll out later this year, can be added for an additional £4900 (Rs 433,015). The system can be installed post-purchase for £6800 (Rs 600,769).

Tesla CEO Elon Musk previously confirmed that UK orders would go live in a tweet, allowing UK customers to place an order before Tesla raises the price of its 'full self-driving' autonomous functionality. From 10 May, those placing orders in the US will need to pay an additional $1000 (Rs 69,302) for the feature.

The carmaker launched its configurator in December for European customers who had already put down a deposit for a Model 3 saloon, which in the process revealed previously unconfirmed pricing and range details. 

The Model 3 went on show in UK dealerships for the first time at the beginning of the year, with demonstration models on display at Tesla’s London Park Royal and Manchester Stockport locations ahead of right-hand-drive models going on sale.

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