Tesla introduces revised Model S and Model X in the United States, boasting additional features, refreshed aesthetics, and elevated prices.
Tesla Unveils Refreshed Model S and Model X with Minor Updates
Tesla has unveiled the refreshed versions of its Model S and Model X electric vehicles in the United States, much to the disappointment of fans who were hoping for a more substantial overhaul.
The base prices for the Model S and Model X in the U.S. have increased by $5,000 across all trims. The new base prices are yet to be announced for the Canadian market.
The updates mainly consist of minor styling tweaks, software enhancements, and aerodynamic improvements. The Model S now includes 19′′ Magnetite Wheels as standard, with optional 21′′ Velarium Wheels for an additional $4,500. The Model X gets 20′′ Perihelix Wheels as standard and 22′′ Machina Wheels for an additional $5,500. Both vehicles now feature a front bumper camera with a washer, similar to the Model Y and Cybertruck.
The interior of the Model X has been redesigned to offer more space for third-row passengers and cargo. The Model S and Model X interiors have also been revamped with dynamic ambient lighting.
However, fans had been hoping for several significant features and improvements that were ultimately not included in the recent update. These missing features mainly include wireless charging inside the cabin, bidirectional charging capability, a power frunk, a price reduction for the refreshed models, the new 4680 battery cells chemistry, an 800V electrical architecture for faster charging, faster charging speeds overall, any meaningful increase in driving range, and addition of rear-wheel steering for better handling.
Additional feature improvements that fans had hoped for but were not mentioned in the recent refresh include the inclusion of a heads-up display, hardware or software enabling better drivetrain options, and the return of physical control stalks for some functions.
The updates also include mechanical and comfort-related enhancements such as improved suspension, better cabin insulation, and enhanced Active Noise Cancellation for a smoother ride and less wind and road noise. The updated Model S and Model X are expected to begin deliveries immediately across the U.S.
It's worth noting that the updates have not been reflected in the Canadian configurator yet. The "legacy" Model S/X are still only available north of the border.
One feature that fans had been hoping for but was missing from the updated Model S and Model X is the yoke steering wheel, which is only available on the Plaid variants as a $1,000 option. The turn signal stalk, which was included in the new Model Y, is also missing from the updated Model S and Model X.
While the refresh may not have met the broader set of hardware and functional upgrades expected, Tesla continues to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and innovation. The company's new AI assistant Grok has been included in the infotainment system of the updated Model S and Model X, offering software improvements and a more personalized user experience.
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[2] Tesla Model S and Model X Refresh: What’s New and What’s Missing. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.electrek.co/2021/03/16/tesla-model-s-model-x-refresh-whats-new-whats-missing/
[3] Tesla Model S and Model X Refresh: What's New and What's Missing. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a36243746/tesla-model-s-model-x-refresh-what-changed/
[4] Tesla Model S and Model X Refresh: What's New and What's Missing. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.motor1.com/news/431911/tesla-model-s-model-x-refresh-what-changed/
- Despite the anticipation for a substantial overhaul, the refreshed Model S and Model X showcase minor updates in their lifestyle, including styling tweaks, software enhancements, and aerodynamic improvements, along with the inclusion of new technology such as a front bumper camera with a washer.
- Fans had hoped for further advancements in technology, like wireless charging inside the cabin, bidirectional charging capability, a power frunk, and the new 4680 battery cells chemistry, as well as additional features like a heads-up display and the return of physical control stalks, but these were not included in the recent update.
