New Tesla Model 3 Highland

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Tesla Model 3 has been available for six years and has undergone various minor updates during that time. However, the new Project Highland update appears to bring a more comprehensive refresh to this popular mid-sized electric sedan.

One noticeable change is the smoother and cleaner front fascia, which no longer includes the small fog light pods that were previously mounted low on either side. The headlights have also been redesigned and now feature integrated daytime running lights. Additionally, the front fenders and doors showcase a new strake around the turn signal area.

At the rear, there are changes as well, with a diffuser-like arrangement cutting into the bumper. This contrasts with the plain rear bumper seen in previous models. While the limited resolution of the photos makes it difficult to determine the extent of the change, it's possible that there may be aerodynamic tweaks along with the styling changes. The rear tails have also been given a more modern claw-like design.

Aside from the visible changes, the update is expected to bring broader changes to the car's fundamentals. This includes reducing component counts to achieve cost savings and updating the external and interior appearance to keep the Model 3 fresh in the eyes of customers.

The updated WLTP range figures for the rear-wheel-drive Model 3 show improved performance. The standard model achieves 344 miles with 18-inch wheels, while the Long Range model achieves an impressive 421 miles. This represents an approximate 12 percent improvement compared to the current Model 3, which had WLTP range figures of 305 and 374 miles, respectively. Although U.S. market figures may vary due to the EPA's testing cycle, it's clear that more range will be available.

Inside the Model 3, there have been updates as well. The interior now features aluminum and new fabric materials, and there is a fresh ambient lighting system that illuminates the cabin. According to Tesla, the cabin has also been sonically improved with the addition of new acoustic glass and soundproofing materials. Other changes include a new 8-inch rear display screen with infotainment and climate controls, new steering-mounted controls to replace column-mounted stalks, and slimmer bezels on the main 15.4-inch infotainment screen.

Sources suggest that the Project Highland update will first go into production at Gigafactory Shanghai, with indications that manufacturing may have already begun. It is also expected that Tesla's Fremont, California plant will produce the new facelift models. Deliveries for Europe and the Middle East are reportedly set to begin in October, although availability for the U.S. market has not yet been announced by Tesla.

A refresh for the Model 3 is a logical move considering its long presence in the market. With increasing competition in the EV sedan market, Tesla hopes that this update, along with its aggressive pricing strategy, will help maintain strong sales.

FutureCar Staff