A new report claims the updated Tesla Model 3 is in line for comprehensive interior and exterior changes, for a mild price rise. But it may not be due until next year.
New details of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 facelift have been revealed in a new report, ahead of first showroom arrivals that may not commence until early next year.
Social media posts by Twitter user Teslascope – a Tesla vehicle-tracking service that has a track record of reporting accurate information from Tesla insiders on new models – detail a variety of changes planned for the updated Model 3, codenamed ‘Highland’.
Among the changes are the reported availability of the Formula One-style ‘yoke’ steering wheel from the larger Model S, “major” exterior and interior changes, and more advanced autonomous-driving cameras.
While Teslascope has hinted at only a minor price rise for the updated model – and “similar” pricing to the current Model 3 – the user has warned the new Tesla may be delayed to early next year.
Overseas reports from reputable publications have previously pointed to a launch between July and September 2023 (the third quarter of the year) – with business news outlet Bloomberg reporting a September start of production.
Tesla allegedly commenced “trial production” of pre-production vehicles at the start of this month (June) – which has led to speculation an unveiling will be imminent.
However Teslascope reports there have been “multiple delays”, and the Model 3 could debut anywhere between “1-3 months” from now (by October), or the first quarter of 2024 (January to March).
Tesla is yet to comment on arrival timing for the updated Model 3 – or even confirm plans for the vehicle.
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According to Teslascope, the Model 3 ‘Highland’ is set for a “major refresh of the exterior”, as previewed by spy photos – and one revealing leaked image posted online in April, showing a new front end with slimmer headlights and a simpler bumper.
The Twitter user reports there will be advanced ‘matrix’ LED headlights on all models – which can blank out part of their beam to avoid dazzling oncoming motorists – and an extra camera on the front bumper.
The camera is due to form part of Tesla’s latest ‘Hardware 4’ suite of sensors and cameras for its autonomous driving technology, which is said to roll out to the Model 3 just before, or with the updated model.
The Hardware 4 (HW4) cameras are said to be higher quality and have a wider lens, matched with vehicle systems that have improved processing power.
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Inside, Teslascope claims the Model 3 will introduce the option of a Formula One or aircraft-like ‘yoke’ steering control – as an alternative to the circular steering wheel – as seen on the Model S and Model X.
However both wheels will reportedly be paired with ‘steer-by-wire’ technology, which removes the physical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels in favour of an electronic link.
It means that unlike the Model S – where the yoke is paired to a traditional steering rack, so multiple turns from lock to lock are required to complete parking manoeuvres at low speed – steer-by-wire means the steering ratio can be varied based on the vehicle’s speed, removing the need for clunky hand-over-hand movements.
Other interior changes planned – according to Teslascope – include multi-colour RGB ambient interior lighting, “minor improvements” to the sound system, some recycled materials, and new seats now designed by an external supplier, rather than in-house by Tesla.
Drive has previously reported the gear selector stalk is set to be ditched in favour of a slider on the touchscreen.
According to Teslascope the new seats are intended to “improve ride comfort and, in testing, reduce vibrations experienced in prior generations”.
“Based on conversations we’ve now had with at least a dozen employees across various roles within the company, Highland’s interior will feel fresher, more modern, and much closer to the look and feel of the recent Model S and X redesign,” the Twitter user claims.
Further tweaks will reportedly include the removal of various sensors to improve energy efficiency – instead switching to GPS-based data – plus an ‘R’ symbol in the side mirrors when in reverse, and changes that incorporate “years of customer feedback”.
Teslascope says it does not have details on any changes to the battery packs and electric motors available in the updated model.
According to the user, the changes may not come with a substantial price rise due to new-found efficiencies in the manufacturing process.
“While we’ve not received anything concrete to confirm or deny this, we’re confident Highland will be priced similarly to the current generation,” the Twitter user claims.
“Via improvements throughout the entire manufacturing process, Highland delivers a brand new experience, all while accomplishing insane cost-savings for the company and customers.”
The ‘Highland’ facelift will be the first major update for the world’s best-selling electric passenger car since it went on sale in the US in 2017.
For everything we know so far about the updated 2024 Tesla Model 3, click the links below to read Drive’s earlier coverage.
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