Tesla Model 3 Highland Update

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【Summary】Tesla is set to introduce a comprehensive refresh for the Model 3, known as Project Highland. The update includes changes to the front fascia, rear bumper, and rear tail lights. It also brings improvements to the car's range, interior materials, and technology, such as a new rear display screen and steering-mounted controls. The update is expected to go into production at Gigafactory Shanghai and deliveries are scheduled to begin in October for Europe and the Middle East.

FutureCar Staff Sep 03, 2023 11:25 PM PT

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 extensive refresh to the popular mid-sized electric sedan.

One noticeable change is the smoother and cleaner front fascia, which no longer features the small fog light pods. The headlights have also been redesigned with integrated daytime running lights. Additionally, the front fenders and doors now have a new strake around the turn signal area.

At the rear, there are changes as well, including a diffuser-like arrangement in the bumper. This is a departure from the previously plain rear bumper design. The rear tails have also been given a more modern claw-like design.

Aside from the visible changes, the update aims to make broader improvements to the model's fundamentals. Tesla plans to reduce component counts for cost savings while updating the car's external and interior appearance to keep it fresh for customers.

The updated WLTP range figures for the rear-wheel-drive Model 3 show an improvement of approximately 12 percent over the current model. The standard model achieves 344 miles with 18-inch wheels, while the Long Range model achieves an impressive 421 miles. These figures may vary for the U.S. market due to EPA testing, but it indicates that more range will be available.

Inside the Model 3, there are also updates. The interior 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 begin in October for Europe and the Middle East, but availability for the U.S. market has not been announced yet.

A refresh for the Model 3 is a logical move considering the increasing competition in the EV sedan market. Tesla aims to keep sales strong by offering an updated model alongside its aggressive pricing strategy.