A potential new Tesla Model 3 prototype has been spotted in California bearing elements which might hint at the rumoured “Project Highland” redesign of the Model 3.
While the company’s CEO travels further down the path of conspiracy theories on his newly acquired social media platform, Tesla is getting on with life. Rumours began circulating since a Reuters exclusive claimed the company was developing a “revamped” version of the Model 3, working under the project codename “Highland”.
According to Reuters, one of the focuses of the redesign is to reduce the number of components and complexity in the interior of the Model 3, while nevertheless continuing to focus on features valued by Tesla owners.
Reuters also hinted at possible changes to the Model 3’s exterior and powertrain performance, and suggested a redesigned Model 3 could roll off the production line in the third quarter of 2023.
Fast-forward a week and Twitter user @omg_tesla posted a batch of photos over the weekend which potentially showed a Model 3 with some of the exterior design elements expected.
What’s going on here? @klwtts @WholeMarsBlog @teslaownersSV pic.twitter.com/uFpxcsVh4D
— omg_Tesla/Rivian (@omg_tesla) December 3, 2022
The photos, taken in a parking garage in Santa Cruz, California, show a Model 3 with covers across the front bumper, hood, front quarter panels, trunk, rear bumper, and rear quarter panels.
Manufacturer plates (indicated by the vertical MFG) confirm the car is officially from Tesla but considering basically everything of potential interest is hidden under a cover, it’s difficult to know exactly what we’re looking at.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.