In the refreshed Tesla Model 3, one significant change that might have gone unnoticed in the official images and videos is the removal of physical stalks on the steering column. In the pre-facelift Model 3, gear selection was primarily handled by the right-hand side stalk. Drivers would push down for drive, pull up for reverse, and press on the end for park. However, with the facelifted Model 3, Tesla has taken a different approach.
Now, the gear selection process has moved away from physical controls. Instead, users will need to rely on the central touchscreen to choose their desired gear, similar to how it works in the revamped Model S and Model X. While this may not seem like a significant change, it does introduce a potential issue.
Just like any electronic device, there’s a chance that the central touchscreen might malfunction or stop responding. In such cases, it would become impossible to select drive or park, essentially rendering the vehicle immobile. This is where the importance of physical buttons becomes evident.
In the case of the Model S and Model X, there is a strip of capacitive buttons around the hazard lights button on the center console. These buttons serve as a backup control method in case the touchscreen becomes unresponsive. However, in the refreshed Model 3, this feature is notably absent.
Instead, Tesla has integrated a pair of wireless charging trays below the central screen. So, where are the physical buttons for crucial functions like hazard lights?
According to a Chinese features pamphlet, in the Project Highland version of the Tesla Model 3, these buttons have been relocated to the headliner, placed between the two sun visors and positioned next to the rearview mirror. This placement makes them easily accessible and provides a backup method for essential functions.
In addition to this button placement revelation, the same document also divulges the performance specifications of the refreshed Model 3. The rear-wheel drive variant is equipped with an electric motor producing 194 kilowatts (260 horsepower) and 250 pound-feet (340 Newton-meters) of torque, with a weight of 3,880 pounds (1,760 kilograms). Meanwhile, the dual-motor all-wheel drive version boasts a more robust 331 kW (443 hp) of power and 412 lb-ft (559 Nm) of torque.
This subtle yet important change in control layout in the refreshed Model 3 ensures that Tesla continues to refine and innovate in its vehicle design, aiming to provide both an intuitive user experience and a robust backup system in case of any unexpected technical glitches.