This is (probably) the Tesla Model 3 facelift

Meanwhile, this image of a special Tesla Model 3 is going around the Internet pretty fast. Rigging a game of “find the differences” is out of the question this time, as the changes are obvious. Indeed, the Tesla Model 3 “facelift,” which is partially under a canvas in a shed, has a completely different front end. Given the large number of flies on the bumper, this appears to be a prototype that has the necessary test miles behind it. Whether the image is real or fake we don’t know, of course, but the picture has a pretty authentic look to it.

New features on the Tesla Model 3 facelift

If this is indeed the new Tesla Model 3, first of all the new headlights stand out. These are a lot narrower than before and give the smallest Tesla a slightly meaner look. In addition, the new headlights are more in line in shape with the Model 3’s bigger brothers, the Model S and -X. Also, the one pictured has a front bumper that appears to be slightly smoother than that of the current Model 3. Perhaps this will provide further gains in aerodynamics, which in turn would benefit the range.

Whether Tesla makes any innovations at the rear of the Model 3 will have to be seen later. The mystery photographer presumably did not have time to remove the tarpaulin completely from the car. It is also not yet known what innovations Tesla will make to the Model 3’s interior. At least in the photo, the central touchscreen appears to still be there. If there are any changes to the Model 3’s interior at all, they probably aim to further reduce the car’s production costs. Given the Model 3’s recent price cut, this is no luxury.

The Tesla Model 3’s possible new headlights remind us not only of the larger Tesla’s, but also of a newcomer that is going to be a major competitor to the Model 3: the BYD Seal. After all, that one has about the same narrow viewers as the Model 3. In that case, the roles would suddenly be reversed: the Americans copying the Chinese….

Introduction of new Tesla Model 3

If this is indeed the facelifted Tesla Model 3, then it is obvious that it will be introduced later this year or early this spring. Whether the Tesla Model Y will then be immediately updated is not yet clear.