Tesla has officially launched the upgraded Model 3 known as the Model 3 Highland in North America. This highly anticipated release marks a significant milestone in Tesla’s journey, offering advanced features and improved aesthetics to the electric vehicle market.
Tesla Model 3 Highland Now Available for Order in North America
The Model 3 Highland boasts several key upgrades over its predecessor. It features an updated exterior optimized for maximum aerodynamics and introduces two new colors: Stealth Gray and Ultra Red. The vehicle also comes with new wheels designed for efficiency. Inside, the Model 3 Highland showcases a fully updated interior with wraparound styling, customizable ambient lighting, premium materials, a stellar sound system, an 8″ rear display, ventilated seats, and wireless charging pads. Additionally, the quieter cabin has been praised by reviewers since the vehicle’s initial launch.
Performance and Variants
The Tesla Model 3 Highland is available in two variants in North America: the base Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) version and the Long Range Dual Motor All Wheel Drive (AWD) variant. The base RWD version, priced at $38,990, offers 272 miles of EPA estimated range, a top speed of 125 mph, and a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. The Long Range AWD variant, starting at $45,990, boasts an EPA estimated range of 341 miles per charge, the same top speed, and a quicker 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds.
The base Tesla Model 3 Highland comes with Stealth Gray paint, 18″ Photon Wheels, and a Black interior. Additional color options and upgrades are available at extra costs, including Pearl White Multicoat, Blue Multicoat, Solid Black paint, and Ultra Red paint. The 19″ Nova wheels and Black and White interior are also available as optional extras.
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Autopilot and Full Self-driving (FSD) Capability
Like other Tesla vehicles, the Model 3 Highland comes with Basic Autopilot as standard. Customers can add Enhanced Autopilot, which includes features like Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Land Change, Autopark, Summon, and Smart Summon, for an extra $6,000. Full Self Driving (FSD) Capability, featuring Autosteer on City Streets and Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control, is available for an additional $12,000.
While the Model 3 Highland models produced in China and shipped globally feature what can be termed as ‘Hardware 3.5’, the North American version is expected to come with ‘Hardware 4‘. This upgrade isn’t just a minor tweak, it represents a significant enhancement in the vehicle’s capabilities.
The difference between Hardware 3.5 and Hardware 4 might seem subtle but is quite significant. While both versions boast new high-resolution, 5-megapixel cameras, offering improved visibility and resolution, the North American Model 3 Highland is anticipated to include an additional feature: high-definition radar. This radar system is expected to enhance the vehicle’s sensing capabilities, potentially offering a more refined and accurate driving experience.
Availability and Delivery
As of now, Tesla Model 3 Highland orders in North America have an estimated delivery date of January to February 2024. This launch is a testament to Tesla’s commitment to evolving its models to offer better performance, technology, and overall driving experience.
Conclusion
The arrival of the Tesla Model 3 Highland in North America is more than just an update to a popular model; it’s a step forward in Tesla’s mission to revolutionize the electric vehicle industry. With enhanced performance capabilities, aesthetic upgrades, and advanced technology, the Model 3 Highland is set to appeal to a broad spectrum of customers, from those seeking efficient daily driving to those desiring high-performance luxury.
