A Tesla Model 3 prototype with a refreshed design under camouflage has been spotted with new wheels.
Late last year, we started hearing rumors that Tesla is working on a Model 3 refresh that would come in the second half of 2023.
The project would be codenamed “Highland”.
For a few years now, Tesla has been integrating its large molding technology into the Model Y with large single molding parts replacing dozens of parts in the electric SUV.
This new technology has allowed Tesla to significantly improve manufacturing efficiency with the Model Y compared to the Model 3. CEO Elon Musk said that Tesla will eventually bring the same technology to the Model 3, but he could not say exactly when.
The problem is that such a Model 3 update would temporarily slow production, and Tesla couldn’t afford it as it ramped up Model Y production even further. However, Model Y production is now starting to exceed the Model 3 production, and it could be a good time for Tesla to update the Model 3 using the technology.
In December, Model 3 prototype with heavy camo spotted being tested in California.
Another prototype was spotted earlier this month because Tesla should be closer to the exit of the vehicle.
With the heavy camouflage on the front and back of these prototypes, it was difficult to identify a specific change to the Model 3.
Now another Model 3 prototype has been spotted, and it again features heavy camo front and back:
But this time, we can see a change in the vehicle: the wheels. This prototype features new wheels that have never been seen on a Tesla vehicle before.
They appear to be new 18-inch aero wheels without the aero cap.
Unlike Tesla’s current aero wheel design, the spokes enter the center at different angles. If the wheel itself has changed, it’s likely that Tesla has changed the design of the aero caps as well, but these have yet to be spotted.
It’s unclear when Tesla plans to announce the new, updated Model 3, but more details could be released at Investor Day next week as the automaker is expected to give a roadmap update. of the product.
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