Tesla Model 3 Undergoes Facelift
The world’s best-selling electric car, the Tesla Model 3, has undergone a significant facelift. Tesla has stated that over 50% of the car’s components have been renewed, with a focus on improving part quality and enhancing user-friendliness based on user feedback. Noteworthy updates include improvements in range, with the Tesla Model 3 now offering an increase of up to 30 kilometers. The refreshed model, featuring its updated design, is set to be available for purchase starting in 2024. The question remains: Will the Model 3 be able to maintain its leading position in the market?
I apologize for the low image quality; unfortunately, Tesla has not yet released official visuals of the vehicle, so I had to obtain some images from the video. The most noticeable change on the front of the Tesla Model 3 is the headlights. The headlights have taken on a thinner and more horizontal shape, reminiscent of the long-anticipated Tesla Roadster model. The front bumper has also undergone a transformation, with the duckbill-shaped bumper taking on a different form. The bumper, now without fog lights, features fewer lines. It seems like it will take some time to get used to these changes.
The most significant change in the side silhouette of the vehicle is related to the wheel options. With feedback from users, Tesla has even updated the charging port. Having experienced the same charging port on the Model Y, Tesla mentions that they have improved the cap to provide a more secure and tactile feel, as if it might stay in your hand when touched.
Tesla has also changed the taillights on the rear of the vehicle, now offering LED taillights. While the design somewhat resembles Renault’s design language, it undeniably presents a more premium appearance. Additionally, the addition of the iridescent “stealth gray” and “ultra red” colors to the Model 3 is a delightful enhancement.
The ambient lighting added to the interior of the Model 3 resembles the lighting found in the Volkswagen ID.3, which is also used for warning lights in driving assistance systems. The Model 3 now features a more modern steering wheel, and the interior includes a wireless charging station where you can simultaneously charge two phones. Additionally, for rear-seat passengers, an 8-inch touchscreen is positioned behind the front armrest. Tesla emphasizes an improvement in leather quality and has opted for double-layered acoustic glass for the windows, contributing to wind noise insulation.
With these exterior modifications, the Model 3 has seen a reduction in its coefficient of friction from 0.23 to 0.219 Cd, resulting in advantages such as reduced wind noise and up to 8% less energy consumption.
Tesla has expanded the optional sound system by increasing the number of speakers from 14 to 17. Additionally, Tesla has added a ventilation function to the seats, aiming to mitigate the drawbacks of the panoramic glass roof on hot days. The autopilot sensors, which previously detected objects up to 160 meters away, now have an increased range of up to 250 meters and improved data processing capabilities.
As of now, Tesla has disclosed two motor options for the Model 3. The rear-wheel-drive standard range model offers a WLTP range of 513 kilometers. The rear-wheel-drive Model 3 achieves a 0-100 kilometers per hour acceleration in 6.1 seconds, while the all-wheel-drive long-range version accomplishes the same acceleration in 4.4 seconds. The long-range version of the Model 3 boasts an impressive WLTP range of 629 kilometers. How do you find the updated Model 3?