What is the body material of the domestically produced Model 3?
3 Answers
1. The Model 3 adopts an all-aluminum body structure, which is lighter compared to traditional steel bodies, aiming to offset the additional weight from the heavy battery pack as much as possible, thereby enhancing performance and increasing range. 2. The front of the vehicle is made of high-strength steel to withstand common rear-end collisions. On both sides of the front longitudinal crash beams, there are sections of curved ultra-high-strength steel structures, likely designed to handle small overlap collisions such as 25% offset impacts. 3. The sides and rear fenders are constructed from low-carbon steel, which has lower strength and softer hardness, making repairs more convenient for minor incidents like daily scratches. Although it doesn't feature an all-aluminum construction, the Model 3 still manages to keep its weight between 1.6-1.7 tons. With satisfactory range performance, the vehicle's weight hasn't increased significantly compared to gasoline cars of similar size.
I recently researched the body materials of the domestically produced Model 3 and found it quite interesting. It mainly uses a combination of aluminum and steel. Aluminum is used on large surfaces like the roof and hood to reduce weight, while steel is used in structural parts such as the frame and pillars to enhance strength and collision protection. This design helps improve range efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and offers some corrosion resistance. After localization of the supply chain for domestic production, it’s likely that high-quality domestic materials are used while maintaining the same composition. When driving, it’s important to be cautious as aluminum parts are prone to scratches—try to avoid gravel roads. Also, avoid using strong acidic cleaners when washing the car. Overall, the material selection is smart, balancing performance and cost effectively.
As an average car owner, I think the mixed aluminum and steel body construction of the domestically produced Model 3 is quite good. The aluminum shell is lightweight and saves some electricity, while the steel frame provides robust protection for safety. Localization makes repairs cheaper because materials are easier to source. When driving, the body isn't too heavy, allowing for quick acceleration and stable cornering. However, if the aluminum panels get scratched, it can be troublesome and may cost more to repair. Fortunately, the 4S shops handle repairs quickly. Maintenance is simple—just regular checks for rust spots to prevent corrosion in high humidity. The material advantages are clearly reflected in daily comfort.
