Watch This Tesla Model 3 Break a Rally Course Record

Tesla's small sedan is surprisingly capable on snow.

Photo by: YouTube

By: Anthony Alaniz

Feb 6, 2025 at 4:15pm ET

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The Tesla Model 3 is one of the best-selling electric vehicles in America. It’s quick on dry surfaces thanks to its dual-motor setup making over 400 horsepower, but it’s also a star on snow and ice, according to the latest Team O’Neil Rally School video on YouTube. The Model 3 will rally, and it’s damn good at it, too.

The Model 3 in this test isn’t entirely stock. It's equipped with Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 studded winter tires, a 1.75-inch lift kit, and an ECU tune. But that’s all it needs to dominate the slippery stuff. The Model 3 actually set a new lap record, completing the school’s rally course in 2:12.13. It beat the Subaru WRX (2:14.38), Dodge Durango SRT (2:14.97), and Ford Bronco Badlands (2:18.09).

“As a driver, there’s not much more you could want for an all-wheel drive vehicle in the winter like this,” lead instructor Wyatt Knox said in the video.

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The electric powertrain, with help from the tune, provides greater control over acceleration and regenerative braking, which, with one-pedal driving, can create drag that causes unique shifts in the car’s weight, allowing a greater level of finesse. The Tesla’s conventional brakes also work well in the snow, but the car understeers when braking.

Outside the understeer and an intrusive anti-lock brake system, Wyatt had no complaints about how the Tesla handled in the snow. Establishing a new lap record is notable for the popular electric vehicle. It might not go as far in the snow and cold, but it’ll handle just fine wherever you go.