Tesla Introduces Enhanced Model S and Model X in U.S., Offering Additional Features, Fresh Appearance, and Increased Costs
The electric vehicle giant, Tesla, has announced updates to its Model S and Model X lineups, much to the anticipation of its fans. However, the unveiled versions have left some disappointed as several expected features are missing.
Starting with the design, both the Model S and Model X have received updated exterior styling. This includes new front and rear bumpers for the Model S, fresh paint options, and aerodynamic wheels. The Model X comes with 20'' Perihelix Wheels as standard, and 22'' Machina Wheels for an additional $5,500. The Model S now includes 19'' Magnetite Wheels as standard, with optional 21'' Velarium Wheels for an extra $4,500.
Inside, the Model S and Model X interiors have received dynamic ambient lighting updates, animating upon entry and offering customizable LED footwell and door pocket lighting across a full spectrum of colors. The Model X interior has been redesigned to offer more space for third-row passengers and cargo, improving versatility.
Other notable changes include enhanced Active Noise Cancellation to refine the driving experience, better cabin insulation to reduce wind and road noise, and a front bumper camera with a washer for improved visibility and safety.
However, Tesla fans were hoping for a more substantial update to the Model S and Model X, as both vehicles have seen lagging sales in recent quarters. Some expected upgrades, such as improved range and performance, steer-by-wire, 48V/800V architecture, a more substantial design update, Hardware 5 (AI5), and other features, are missing from these updates.
Missing features that contributed to perceptions of the update as a minor or "fake" refresh rather than a substantial upgrade include wireless charging, bi-directional charging (Vehicle-to-Grid capability), a power-operated front trunk (frunk), any price reductions, updates to 4680 battery chemistry, fast charging capability, a meaningful increase in driving range, and rear-wheel steering.
The new base prices for the Model S and Model X are $5,000 more than their predecessors, with the Model S Long Range and Model X Long Range priced at $84,990 and $89,990, respectively. The Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid have base prices of $99,990 and $104,990, respectively. Deliveries of the refreshed Model S and Model X are expected to begin immediately across the U.S.
The yoke steering wheel is now only available on the Plaid variants as a $1,000 option. Improved suspension with new bushings has been added for a smoother ride. Two new paint options are available: Frost Blue Metallic for $2,500 and Diamond Black for $1,500.
[1] Source: Electrek [2] Source: Teslarati
This refresh falls short of the expectations set by Tesla's previous updates, but it does offer some improvements to the driving experience and design. As Tesla continues to innovate, fans will likely be keeping a close eye on future updates to see if these missing features are addressed.
- The electric-vehicle industry, specifically Tesla, has recently announced updates to its Model S and Model X lineups, but some fans find the unveiled versions disappointing due to missing expected features.
- The Model S and Model X have received updates to their exterior styling, including new bumpers, paint options, and wheels, but fans were hoping for improvements in range, performance, and technology.
- Despite missing features such as wireless charging, bi-directional charging, and fast charging capability, the new base prices for the Model S and Model X are $5,000 more than their predecessors.
- Tesla's refresh of the Model S and Model X offers some improvements to the driving experience and design, yet fails to meet the expectations set by previous updates, leaving fans anticipating future innovations in the automotive and technology sectors.
