The new, yet-to-be-launched Tesla Model 3 has suddenly become a really big deal, and that’s not because it’s an extraordinary thing. In fact, based on the specs we know of the car, it’s probably something quite average in terms of performance and refinement. The car has rose to celebrity status because so far more than 325,000 people have pre-ordered one.

And that is why it is a big deal seeing one of these things out in the real world months before it actually goes on sale. It is not yet clear if Tesla is going to be able to meet the huge demand for the Model 3 – something they really wan’t expecting – but the enthusiasm people have shown this car proves that electric vehicles are ready to go mainstream. There is a demand for them, a huge one by the looks of things.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rc_J2hi004Q

It’s a bit of a mystery what has attracted so many people to Tesla Model 3. Sure, it is going to be fairly cheap at $35,000 apiece, and the 200 miles range is pretty decent for an electric sedan. But the car doesn’t look particularly exciting, and judging by what we have seen of the interior so far, it is not exactly what you call lavishly equipped. Indeed, you get a massive touchscreen into which is built all the usual luxury amenities, but the look of the cabin is what, we suspect, Jeremy Clarkson would liken to an Egyptian lavatory.