Tesla reported global production and delivery figures for the third quarter of 2026, with deliveries exceeding 486,000 battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), a 1.3% increase quarter over quarter, according to PCauto. Production reached over 464,000 units, up 2.7% from the previous quarter. Energy storage deployments hit 13.7 GWh, up about 9.6% year over year.
The Shanghai Gigafactory, Tesla's largest export hub, delivered over 86,000 vehicles in August, maintaining steady year-over-year growth, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA). The factory supplies both the domestic market and overseas markets including Europe and Asia-Pacific, and accounts for more than half of Tesla's global annual deliveries.
Model 3 refresh and new features
On October 1, Tesla updated the Model 3 lineup sold in China. The central touchscreen is now 16 inches, a new light gray interior option has been added, and the 19-inch wheels get a dark gray finish. Both the Model 3 and Model Y now come with AC external power supply capability, expanding their use for camping and other outdoor activities.
The updates apply across the Model 3 range, which in China includes rear-wheel-drive, long-range all-wheel-drive, and performance variants. Prices for the refreshed models were not disclosed in the report.
Tesla has been rolling out new products at a rapid pace. The Cybercab, a robotaxi without a steering wheel, has started multi-city tours in China. The Semi electric truck has begun volume production and deliveries in North America and Europe, and the second-generation Roadster is scheduled for a formal unveiling on October 15.
Market performance and safety ratings
In the Chinese market, the Model Y achieved retail sales of over 172,000 units in the first half of the year, making it the best-selling SUV across all fuel types, hybrids, and BEVs in China. It also topped the overall passenger car sales chart twice, in March and June.
Globally, by August, Tesla's cumulative deliveries in 14 markets, including South Korea, France, and Australia, had already surpassed their full-year 2025 totals. The Model Y has become one of the best-selling passenger cars in several markets on a monthly basis.
On safety, the Model Y received top ratings in multiple categories in the 2026 C-IASI (China Insurance Automotive Safety Index) tests, and has also earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. The Model 3 again passed the NHTSA five-star safety rating.
For domestic buyers, Tesla is offering limited-time purchase and charging incentives. Orders placed by October 31 for the Model 3 lineup and select Model Y variants include a final payment discount and a 5-year zero-interest financing plan, along with several charging service packages.
