Tesla refreshes Model 3 and Model Y: New batteries, front camera and indicator lever
Tesla has just released a series of upgrades for the Model 3 and Model Y. In addition to functional upgrades, there are also new batteries with improved ranges. The current Model Y (codename: Juniper) already features a front camera and the reintroduced indicator stalk. Now, the Model 3 is also getting these two features; with regard to the indicator stalk in particular, Tesla is bowing to customer criticism that operation via the steering wheel buttons was not optimal. The new front camera features a washer and integrated heating element, which prevents fogging or icing.
Furthermore, Tesla has improved the batteries in all Model 3 variants, although it is keeping quiet about the exact details on battery capacity. The manufacturer merely speaks of an improvement in cell density. Tesla states the improvement in range as follows:
- The Model 3 entry-level Rear-Wheel Drive now provides 323 mi/520 km (estimated 338 mi/554 km with standard 18-inch wheels), compared to the previous 319 mi/513 km.
- The Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive now offers 466 mi/750 km, up from 436 mi/702 km (with standard 18-inch wheels).
- The Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel drive and 18-inch wheels now offers an estimated 445 mi/716 km, up from the previous 431 mi/678 km.
- The Model 3 Performance now offers 335 mi/571 km, up from the previous 328 mi/528 km.
The Model Y is also getting a new battery, but the upgrade is limited to the "Long Range All-Wheel Drive" variant:
- The Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive now reaches an estimated 391 mi/629 km instead of the previous 364 mi/586 km.
The changes are now visible in the configurato. Prices have not changed.
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