autoevolution 20 May 2021, 7:31 UTC · by Even though every Tesla model before it played an obvious and important role in the company's progress, the switch from a niche EV maker to a global enterprise for Elon Musk's venture hanged on the success of the Model 3. 3 photos It helped transition Tesla from the small-volume carmaker it was when all it sold were the Model S and X to the most important player in the EV market at the moment, with real chances to remain at this level for at least a few years to come. None of it would have been possible without the compact sedan, so the 3 will always hold a special place in the brand's history.