After years of no real EV competition, Tesla could be feeling the heat from rival manufacturers lately. In fact, a redesigned Model 3 is reportedly in the works and could be coming soon with a lower price tag.
According to several sources who spoke with Reuters, Tesla is busy working on a revamped Model 3 sedan that will be more affordable and stylish while also cutting costs for the automaker. Codenamed "Highland," the next Tesla Model 3 could have multiple changes compared to the current model released in 2017.
The revamped Model 3 could have a fresh new look on the outside, a slightly redesigned and upgraded interior, and potential powertrain and performance tweaks to handle the incoming competition.
Four different sources spoke to Reuters, suggesting Tesla wants to cut production costs by using fewer components on the inside, all while improving the overall look to make the vehicle more appealing. However, the most significant aspect of the redesign is to cut costs and, hopefully, deliver a Model 3 at the original promised $35,000 price point.
It's worth noting that this isn't the first time we've seen Tesla make changes to refresh vehicles or keep up with the growing competition. In January of 2021, the company made a few tweaks to the Model S, and at the end of 2021, Elon Musk confirmed several changes to the Cybertruck to match offerings from Rivian, Ford, and GM.
Considering all the exciting new electric cars and trucks coming in 2023, this makes sense. We see manufacturers update and redesign vehicles all the time, so this shouldn't shock anyone. That said, with it being Tesla's "affordable" Model 3, many potential buyers will be on the lookout for more details.
According to several sources, the new "Highland" Tesla Model 3 will go into production in Q3 of 2023 at Tesla's factory in Shanghai, along with the Fremont, California location. Tesla has yet to confirm any such details or changes.
via The Verge