Tesla Model 3 Highland

author: FutureCar Staff    

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

One noticeable change is the smoother and cleaner front fascia. The fog light pods have been removed, and the headlights now have a sleeker design with integrated daytime running lights. Additionally, the front fenders and doors feature 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 previous plain rear bumper design. 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. The goal is to reduce component counts for cost savings while updating the external and interior appearance to keep the car fresh in the eyes of customers.

Updated WLTP range figures show improvements in the Model 3's range. 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 increase compared to the current Model 3. The actual range figures may vary for the U.S. market due to the EPA's testing cycle.

The interior of the Model 3 has also been updated. It now features aluminum and new fabric materials, along with a fresh ambient lighting system. Tesla claims that the cabin has been sonically improved with 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, 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 has already begun. Tesla's Fremont, California plant will likely produce the new facelift models as well. Deliveries are expected to start in October for Europe and the Middle East, although availability for the U.S. market has yet to be announced.

A refresh for the Model 3 is necessary considering the increasing competition in the EV sedan market. Tesla hopes that this update, combined with its aggressive pricing strategy, will help maintain strong sales.

FutureCar Staff