Your 2023 Tesla Model 3 earns a 272-mile EPA range rating. Most drivers see 20 to 30 percent less in real life. That equals 190 to 220 miles per charge. Highway speeds, weather with climate control, hills, and aggressive driving cut range the most.
EPA tests differ from daily drives. Labs use light acceleration, steady speeds up to 60 mph, mild temperatures, and 55 percent city driving. City trips let your Model 3 regain energy through regenerative braking. Highways give less regen and face more air drag. Drag grows fast above 60 mph, so range drops quick.
Check these common factors and their impacts on Model 3 range:
| Factor | Typical range impact |
|---|---|
| 75 mph highway vs EPA mix | 20 to 30 percent less |
| Cold below 40°F with heat | 30 to 40 percent less |
| Hot above 90°F with strong AC | 10 to 20 percent less |
| Rain, snow, or headwinds | 10 to 15 percent less |
| Low tire pressure (5 psi low) | 5 to 10 percent less |
| Roof rack or heavy cargo | 5 to 15 percent less |
| Frequent hard acceleration | 15 to 25 percent less |
Weather hurts range because the battery and cabin need heating or cooling. Heat draws more power than AC. Hills matter too. Climbs use extra energy. Descents return some through regen. Charging habits play a role. Fast DC charging on a cold battery adds heat-up power use. For long battery health, charge daily from 20 to 80 percent. Skip 100 percent sits.
Boost your range with these steps:
- Drive highways at 65 to 70 mph. Set cruise control when safe.
- Precondition cabin and battery on plug-in power. Save battery juice.
- Pick Chill mode. Ease on the throttle. Anticipate stops for max regen.
- Inflate tires to 42 psi when cold. Check monthly and before trips.
- Use seat heaters. Set cabin temp moderate. Cut max heat or AC when possible.
- Ditch roof racks and extra weight unless needed.
- Pick routes without strong headwinds or big climbs.
- Plan trips with 15 to 25 percent buffer below EPA. Add more in winter.
- Watch the Energy app. Target 3.5 to 4.0 miles per kWh.
EPA numbers let you compare vehicles. Real range shifts with your speed, weather, and roads. Sidekick tracks your habits, compares to local Model 3 drivers, predicts charge stops, and spots cheap stations nearby.