Tesla's Introduction To The Model 3 Stirs Excitement, Rapid Demand

Tesla unveiled its new $35,000 Model 3 Thursday night and, considering the fast-growing demand, has apparently lived up to the hype.

This undated photo provided by Tesla Motors shows the Model 3 car. The promise of an affordable electric car from Tesla Motors had hundreds of people lining up to reserve one. At a starting price of $35,000 — before federal and state government incentives — the Model 3 is less than half the cost of Tesla's previous models. (Tesla Motors via AP)
This undated photo provided by Tesla Motors shows the Model 3 car. The promise of an affordable electric car from Tesla Motors had hundreds of people lining up to reserve one. At a starting price of $35,000 — before federal and state government incentives — the Model 3 is less than half the cost of Tesla's previous models. (Tesla Motors via AP)

Tesla unveiled its new $35,000 Model 3 Thursday night and, considering the fast-growing demand, has apparently lived up to the hype. 

According to the AP, orders for the new, lower-priced car have hit 198,000 as of Friday afternoon and are continuing to grow. CEO Elon Musk was even surprised by the news, tweeting that he would definitely "need to rethink production planning."

The Model 3 has a range of 215 miles per change and can go from zero to 60 mph in under six seconds — in true Tesla spirit. Deliveries are expected to begin late 2017. 

Take a look at some of the hype around yesterday's release:

This undated photo provided by Tesla Motors shows the Model 3 car. The promise of an affordable electric car from Tesla Motors had hundreds of people lining up to reserve one. At a starting price of $35,000 — before federal and state government incentives — the Model 3 is less than half the cost of Tesla's previous models. (Tesla Motors via AP)This undated photo provided by Tesla Motors shows the Model 3 car. The promise of an affordable electric car from Tesla Motors had hundreds of people lining up to reserve one. At a starting price of $35,000 — before federal and state government incentives — the Model 3 is less than half the cost of Tesla's previous models. (Tesla Motors via AP)
More in Automotive