Tesla Model 3 mania kicks off with teaser ahead of March 31 reveal

The Tesla Model 3 isn’t due to start delivery until late 2017. When it arrives, it should have a range of at least 200 miles and a starting price of about $35,000 before incentives.

A Tesla Motors logo is shown on a Tesla Model S at a Tesla Motors dealership at Corte Madera Village, an outdoor retail mall, in Corte Madera, Calif.

Robert Galbraith/Retuers/File

March 17, 2016

In a couple of weeks Tesla Motors [NSDQ:TSLA] will provide a first look at what's shaping up to be its most crucial model yet, the Model 3 electric sedan.

The company yesterday released a teaser that shows the silhouette of the Model 3 alongside the existing Model S and Model X. It hints that the Model 3 will feature a conventional shape much like that of the Model S, at least when viewed from the front.

Although the reveal will take place on March 31, the Model 3 isn’t due to start delivery until late 2017. When it arrives, it should have a range of at least 200 miles and a starting price of about $35,000 before incentives.

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The range and pricing are similar to what Chevrolet’s Bolt EV offers, though the Model 3 will be a more substantial car. It’s expected to be a small sedan about the size of the BMW 3-Series. The Bolt EV is a subcompact hatch.

To help meet its ambitious price target, Tesla is expected to rely on more conventional steel rather than aluminum like in the Model S and Model X. Tesla will also be using its own batteries this time around, sourced from its Gigafactory under construction in Nevada.

The Model 3 will be the first model based on Tesla’s third-generation platform. This platform will also be used for a crossover-like model and possibly a new Roadster.

We’ll be bringing you full details on the Model 3 following the March 31 reveal in California. As Green Car Reports points out, Tesla is offering 650 tickets for the reveal event to existing customers. Details on how to receive a ticket were sent out in a customer email.