There are in all likelihood some updates on the way for the Tesla Model 3. One seems to have already been introduced, while two other news items are still in the rumor phase. However, the rumors are accompanied by photos.
To start with the most concrete news: the plastic box called ‘frunk’ on the Model 3, so the luggage compartment under the front cover, has a different shape from now on. On the internet several photos are doing the rounds of recently delivered Model 3’s with a differently shaped and slightly smaller frunk.
The reason is guesswork, but the larger Model S went through a similar process throughout its career. Early Model Ss have a much bigger frunk than later ones, mainly to make room for a second engine on the front axle. A Model 3 already has it, but the frunk could point to the introduction of a heat pump. SUV brother Model Y does have this energy-saving feature, so it should be technically possible. As usual, Tesla keeps her lips tight, reports Electrek, among others.
Headlights
Then the more speculative updates. On the Canadian Tesla blog Driveteslacanada.ca A photo has appeared of a Model 3 headlight with a slightly different layout than we are used to. Instead of a row of mirrors, which indirectly reflects the LED light in the right direction, as it were, this car is fitted with a clearly distinguishable lens in the far corner of the headlight. This suggests that Tesla is planning to switch to a different headlight technology, which as a side effect has a slightly changed appearance. It can not be an aftermarket headlight, Driveteslacanada rightly reports, because such products are simply not available. It is remarkable that the more recent Model Y apparently has Model 3 headlights, but does not have such a lens.
Tailgate
In the same set of photos is also a picture of the hinges of the tailgate. It seems to include an electric damper, a feature that the Model 3 currently does not have. The Model Y already has this, but also has a large hatchback lid, which makes the added value of such a helper a lot greater. An electric tailgate is something that can be retrofitted to the Model 3 thanks to aftermarket solutions. However, a study of such a solution and the situation in the new photo shows that the damper itself is slightly different from such a third-party solution, while the power supply and the set of sealing rubbers around the rear window are also new.
To be clear: the white car in the above pictures shows the current situation. These photos are our own, while the images of a red Model 3 are from Driveteslacanada. Anyone who has recently purchased a Model 3 in the Netherlands is cordially invited to send us a photo of the situation under the front cover. Thanks in advance!