Karmactive Team
Govind Tekale
Tesla has finished tearing down the previous Model 3 production setup and has begun installing updated equipment, filing necessary changes. The Model 3, a highly popular electric vehicle, is believed to be in line for improvement and Tesla has been quietly working on it. Although the company is known for keeping information about future updates confidential, it’s rumored they are developing a refurbished Model 3 referred to as “Project Highland.”
The Model 3 once held the title of the best-selling electric vehicle in the US and was highly popular globally. However, with the arrival of the more family-friendly Model Y, Tesla CEO Elon Musk predicted it would surpass the Model 3 in sales and become a top seller globally, which turned out to be true. Yet, it’s time to reignite interest in the Model 3.
Although there have been no official statements, various Model 3 prototypes have been spotted undergoing tests, indicating a potential overhaul. It seems Tesla is working on streamlining the electric sedan, cutting costs, simplifying the interior, and enhancing in-cabin technology. Some reports suggest that the refurbished Model 3 may also have a more affordable price point, but with Tesla’s recent changes, it’s hard to estimate pricing at this time.
During a recent Q4 2022 earnings call, Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk hinted at the existence of new products in the pipeline, but remained tight-lipped about specifics. The electric Semi has already hit the market, the futuristic Cybertruck is approaching, and the return of the Roadster seems imminent, leaving few other options. Some speculate that Tesla might be developing a smaller and more affordable electric compact car or hatchback, along with Project Highland.
As reported by Teslarati, Tesla is progressing with the installation of new production lines for the upcoming Model 3 under the Project Highland initiative. Records show that the automaker has been working on the project for nearly two years and is now moving past the demolition phase of the current Model 3 lines.
According to the publication, Tesla began dismantling the existing Model 3 “Hang On Lines” last year and has now completed the demolition. Public records indicate that the company has shifted to installing the upgraded manufacturing lines and has recently applied for changes to some parts of the line.
Tesla has an upcoming investor day event on March 1, 2023, which was recently announced by Elon Musk. During the earnings call, the company stated that they will be discussing their next-gen platform at the event. It remains uncertain if the future platform also encompasses the Project Highland Model 3, but we may receive more information regarding the refurbished electric sedan at the event.
