When will Tesla introduce the Model 3 facelift with the code name "Highland"? Tesla is still keeping a very low profile with an announcement, but in the last few days more and more masked-off Tesla Model 3 and other exciting leaks. Leaked photos and information give possible hints about innovations. Test production of the new design has already started at the Gigafactory Shanghai, so drone flights by Tesla are also unwelcome there. In addition, Drive Tesla has learned that the Model 3 Fremont production lines will be shut down this week for the transition to the new design. According to our information, the production line will be offline for about a week to make the changes.
Perhaps the biggest new feature in the latest rumors is ventilated seats. Tesla first introduced ventilated seats for the Model S and Model X in 2021, and now it looks like this comfort feature will be added to the new Model 3 coming. The idea that ventilated seats are part of Project Highland was first shared by Twitter user Kelvin Yang (@KelvinYang7), who has shared accurate information about Tesla China in the past.
Model 3 Highland Ventilated Seats!@xiaoteshushu $TSLA https://t.co/rogSePcXja pic.twitter.com/8tL0HJcTFA
- Jay in Shanghai 电动 Jay (@JayinShanghai) June 12, 2023
The rumor was confirmed shortly after when well-known Tesla China enthusiast Jay shared a video in Shanghai that presumably showed the ventilated seat of the Model 3 shows. The video shows that the design of the seat itself has changed only slightly, but you get a good look at the perforations on the bottom and back of the seat that provide additional airflow. This also means that the Model Y will get ventilated seats at some point in the future, probably in next year's redesign.
Yang also hinted that the new Model 3 will feature ambient lighting and an upgraded sound system. Ambient lighting has long been requested by Tesla owners and also cited as a major criticism, as it is now standard equipment on most vehicles.
No exact details were given regarding the sound system, but a possible change could be the installation of a second subwoofer. This could be introduced at the same time as the Cybertruck, as a diagram of the new 48-volt architecture of the electric truck indicates that it will be equipped with two subwoofers.
According to the latest public sighting of the Highland Model 3 we know that some of the exterior changes will be new headlights, taillights and, accordingly, new front and rear bumpers. Inside, there were hints of a new steering wheel and the omission of the gearshift.
Source: Twitter@KelvinYang7 / DriveTesla
