What are the differences between domestically produced Tesla and imported Tesla?

[StJustin]

Here are the differences between domestically produced Tesla and imported Tesla: 1. The price of domestically produced Tesla is lower than that of imported Tesla. Tesla only has one domestically produced model, which is the standard version of Tesla Model 3, while the high-range Tesla Model 3 produced abroad also has higher costs. 2. Imported Tesla performs better in terms of car performance, assembly process, and quality. 3. The optional configurations are different. The imported version can be equipped with white interior, while the current domestically produced version only has black interior available. 4. The range is different. The imported standard range rear-wheel-drive upgraded version is equipped with a 60kWh battery pack, with an NEDC comprehensive range of 480km, and its battery supplier is exclusively Panasonic. The domestically produced version has a 52kWh battery capacity, and the battery suppliers are Panasonic and LG.

[Olivia]

Last month, my family switched to a domestically produced Model 3, having previously driven a friend’s imported version. The most noticeable difference is the cost savings—the domestic version is about 70,000 to 80,000 RMB cheaper than the imported one, thanks to local production eliminating import tariffs. The infotainment system is indeed more localized, with built-in Baidu Maps providing far more accurate navigation than the imported version’s Google Maps, and it even supports direct video streaming from Bilibili. In terms of range, the domestic model uses CATL’s LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery, which experiences more noticeable range loss in winter but is safer and more durable. Surprisingly, the build quality from the Shanghai factory is excellent, with even panel gaps being more consistent than my friend’s U.S.-made version. That said, the imported version’s acceleration is undeniably fiercer, especially the high-performance variant’s exhilarating push-back sensation. For daily commuting, though, the domestic version is more than sufficient, and the money saved could cover five years’ worth of charging.

[VanCamille]

Having researched electric vehicles for several years, the most fundamental difference of domestically-produced Teslas lies in their localization adaptations. In terms of battery packs, the domestic versions come standard with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which offer longer cycle life but inferior low-temperature performance compared to the imported ternary lithium batteries. The Shanghai Gigafactory boasts higher automation levels, with body panel gaps controlled within 0.5mm, demonstrating finer craftsmanship than the Fremont factory. The software features deep customization for local ecosystems: Baidu for navigation, Youku for video streaming, and the voice assistant capable of recognizing regional dialect commands. Hardware-wise, the domestic versions have removed the millimeter-wave radar, primarily relying on camera-based solutions. The price advantage is indeed significant, with the domestic base model being over 20% cheaper than the imported version, though the imported models come with higher configurations, such as air suspension which isn't available on the domestic Model Y.

[EthanLynn]

From a consumer perspective, domestically produced Teslas offer better value. When I purchased my Model Y, I carefully compared and found the domestic version was 50,000-60,000 RMB cheaper than the imported one, plus there's no need to wait three months for customs clearance. The most noticeable difference in daily use is charging compatibility - the domestic version directly uses the GB/T charging port, allowing seamless connection to residential charging piles, while the imported version requires an adapter which is particularly cumbersome. The domestic version exclusively features Tencent Video and Himalaya in its infotainment system - perfect for listening to Guo Degang's crosstalk during traffic jams. However, the imported version has slightly smarter wiper logic, as the domestic one occasionally misjudges light rain. Both versions have identical trunk space, easily accommodating two child seats. For average families, I'd recommend choosing the domestic version outright - the money saved can be more practically spent on paint protection film.