Why’d Tesla decide to add Ultra Red as a premium paint option? The company introduced Ultra Red as one of six available exterior colors for the Model 3, positioning it as the most expensive choice at $2,000 more than the base price. This deeper, richer red represents a significant shift from Tesla’s previous red selections, featuring a metallic sheen with visible metallic specks that create a sophisticated, rubyish appearance similar to high-end sports car finishes.
The color’s visual appeal comes from its complex composition. Ultra Red isn’t a simple solid color. Instead, it’s engineered to change appearance depending on lighting conditions and viewing angles, much like Mazda’s Mica red or Ferrari’s Corso red variants. The metallic paint carries the official product code PR01/R113E and requires a multi-stage application process more complex than standard colors.
Ultra Red’s engineered metallic composition shifts appearance with lighting and viewing angles, requiring multi-stage application like luxury automotive finishes.
Tesla first revealed the facelifted Model 3 with Ultra Red at the Munich IAA 2023 auto show. The new Highland facelift, which includes the color option, launched globally starting in October 2023 for Australian, Chinese, and European markets. All facelifted Model 3 units with Ultra Red are manufactured exclusively at Tesla’s Shanghai factory. This distinctive color option enhances the visual appeal and style of the vehicle, making it stand out among standard color choices for buyers seeking uniqueness.
North American availability’s been delayed while the Fremont factory gets retrofitted for new production. Alternative colors maintaining eligibility include Stealth Grey and lower-cost options that preserve the federal tax credit benefits.
The color choice comes with real financial implications. On Model 3 Performance trims, Ultra Red pushes the base price above the $55,000 federal tax credit threshold, eliminating eligibility for the $7,500 credit. This means the effective cost of choosing Ultra Red reaches $9,500 when accounting for the lost tax credit opportunity.
Performance variants receive special treatment with the color, including matching red brake calipers that complement the exterior. Facelifted models equipped with Ultra Red also feature dual glazed acoustic windows and a new ambient lighting system that improves the cabin experience.
Ultra Red pairs with both black-only and black-and-white interior combinations, offering flexibility for buyers seeking a bold statement. Whether it’s the sophisticated tone or the technical sophistication behind the paint, Ultra Red represents Tesla’s commitment to providing distinctive styling options for drivers willing to invest in premium cosmetic upgrades.