Tesla has begun deliveries of the long-anticipated Model 3 in the UK, with the first customers collecting their cars from the American firm's Heathrow dealership in West Drayton.

The electric saloon has been available to order in the UK since 1 May. Prices start from £38,050 for the entry-level Standard Range Plus, which has a WLTP-estimated range of 258 miles.

While official numbers aren't available, it's understood that around 50 customers collected their cars today (20 June), with the first deliveries of the zero-emissions model made to coincide with UK Clean Air Day. While initial deliveries are being made from Tesla Heathrow, customers will start to receive cars from other Tesla dealerships next week.

The Model 3 is being offered in right-hand drive in Standard Range Plus and dual-motor Long Range Performance forms. The latter starts from £48,590 and can reach 329 miles on a single charge. It's also available with an additional performance upgrade.

Tesla recently developed a new firmware update for European Model 3 Long Range models that will allow them to be charged at a rate of 200kW, making the Model 3 the fastest-charging car currently on sale in the UK.

With the firmware update, Long Range models can charge at up to 200kW at third-party charging stations. Tesla is also developing a fast-charging V3 Supercharger network for Europe, which will allow the cars to be charged at speeds of 250kW.

Both the Standard Range Plus and Long Range Model 3s come with aerodynamically optimised 18in alloy wheels as standard, with 20in alloys available as an option on the Performance Upgrade version. Prices include the UK government's £3500 plug-in car grant.

Tesla Model 3 Performance 2019 UK first drive review

The Model 3 Performance, which has a 162mph top speed and can manage 0-62mph in 3.2sec, is priced from £56,900. It rides on 20in alloy wheels and includes a Premium interior package, which includes satellite-view navigation with live traffic, a premium 14-speaker audio system and in-car music and media streaming.

Tesla's 'full self-driving' autonomous functionality, which is due to roll out later this year, can be added for an additional £4900. The system can be installed post-purchase for £6800.