A Tesla Model 3 Update Reportedly In Development, Dubbed 'Highland'
After six whole years on the market, an update for the Tesla Model 3 might be around the corner.
In a report from Reuters, sources have informed the outlet that Tesla is readying an update to the Model 3 sedan. Dubbed internally project “Highland,” the scope of the project is to simplify the Model 3, and broaden its appeal. Namely, the interior will have fewer components and complexity, yet focus on things customers want, like the big screen. The model freshening could also see revised styling elements, too.
We aren’t sure where exactly Tesla could simplify the Model 3’s already spartan interior. Perhaps, the Model 3 will take a page out of the Model S and X, removing the gear shift stalk, and replacing it with a touchscreen interface. Or, maybe the Model 3 will get a yoke. Whatever the case, we won’t know until it happens. Tesla hasn’t officially made any Model 3 announcements.
Autolist’s study doesn’t just focus on the likely Tacoma EV, it exposes the desires and market trends toward electric trucks as a whole. The F-150 Lightning is the most popular truck amongst EV and Truck owners alike, especially among Gen X and Baby Boomers. Interestingly, Gen Z had an affinity for the Tesla Cybertruck, 32% of Gen Zers surveyed chose it as their top, most likely purchase choice; yet another EV truck that only currently exists in theory.
Still, the sources familiar with the internal project say the Model 3 update will start production first at the Shanghai Gigafactory in the third quarter of 2023. Then, eventually, the Freemont plant will follow suit, but it’s not clear when that will happen.
The Model 3 is very much ready for an update. Although there have been some changes under the skin, you’d be hard-pressed to find any layperson who knew how to differentiate a 2018 Model 3 from the latest 2022 Model 3. The Model 3 is facing stiffer competition both in North America and China, and an update could keep the aging model competitive against new rivals.
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Kevin has been obsessed with cars ever since he could talk. He even learned to read partially by learning and reading the makes and models on the back of cars, only fueling his obsession. Today, he is an automotive journalist and member of the Automotive Press Association. He is well-versed in electrification, hybrid cars, and vehicle maintenance.
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