Tesla’s Model 3 Highland: A Comprehensive Upgrade to the Most Successful Electric Car

Tesla’s Model 3 Highland: A Comprehensive Upgrade to the Most Successful Electric Car

A New Face for the Tesla Model 3

Tesla, the American electric vehicle giant, has announced a significant upgrade to its Model 3 vehicle, the most successful electric car of all time. With over two million units sold in six years, the Model 3 has now been given a fresh new design, dubbed the “Highland”. The car’s exterior has been revamped with a more rounded bumper and narrower lights, which have been fully integrated into the hatchback, enhancing the aerodynamics and reducing the air resistance coefficient to Cd 0.219.

The vehicle also features redesigned 18-inch Photon and 19-inch Nova wheel rims, which reduce air turbulence by 5%. All these changes contribute to a sleeker, more modern look, while also improving the car’s performance and energy efficiency.

Interior Innovations: Minimalism and Functionality

Inside, the Model 3 continues Tesla’s penchant for minimalist design, but with added functionality. The direction indicator levers have been removed from the steering column and are now controlled directly from the steering wheel. The gear shift has also been eliminated, with these functions having been transferred to the 15.4-inch central screen, which has grown by 0.4 inches.

Another significant addition is a second 8-inch display for the rear passengers, which can be used to control the air conditioning or infotainment. This marks a significant step in enhancing passenger comfort and control.

Enhanced Quality and Safety

The Model 3’s interior also features genuine aluminum and wood elements, adding a touch of luxury to the car’s minimalist design. The door construction has been reinforced to meet the strictest safety standards, reinforcing Tesla’s commitment to driver and passenger safety.

Furthermore, the car is now quieter due to the introduction of laminated acoustic windows and new seals. Other features include front ventilated and heated seats integrated directly into the air conditioning, three USB ports with an output of up to 65 W, and two induction chargers.

Performance Upgrades and Pricing

The basic model with rear-wheel drive accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds and has a range of 513 km, 22 km more than its predecessor. The dual-motor Long Range version with a larger battery now manages up to 629 km on one charge and sprints to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds. These ranges can be slightly increased with smaller 18-inch wheels.

Interestingly, Tesla has reduced the maximum speed from 233 to 201 km/h for both versions. The basic Model 3 supports a charging power of 170 kW, while the Long Range can handle 250 kW. The starting price is €36,490, while the Long Range version starts at €43,490, an increase of €2,000. However, it should be noted that Tesla has recently been lowering its prices, making it an attractive option for those looking to switch to electric vehicles.

Conclusion: A Significant Upgrade

Overall, the new Tesla Model 3 Highland represents a significant upgrade to an already outstanding electric vehicle. With its new design, enhanced interior, improved safety features, and increased performance, it continues Tesla’s legacy of innovation and quality in the electric vehicle market.