The Model 3 and Model Y are undoubtedly the most well-known electric vehicles around. Many people praise their ultra-minimalistic interior and suite of high-tech offerings that improve the driving experience as well as bringing with it a lot of convenience. Now, Tesla are releasing new versions of their Model 3 and Model Y, with some quality-of-life changes and improvements to their batteries.
Typically, Tesla have used two types of batteries in their vehicles, LFP-based batteries, and nickel-based. Tesla have made some impressive improvements to their nickel-based batteries, giving them more life.
Battery Improvements
The biggest improvement we'll see with the Model 3 and Model Y is with the nickel-based batteries, with their new technology offering some key changes:
- Up to 10% more range.
- Recommended daily charging to 90%
Now, on paper, these changes might not seem too substantial, but they can make a big difference.
Unless you're using their LFP-based batteries found in their standard-range vehicles, you're probably used to limiting your charge to 80% to preserve the long-term health of the battery, as is common with most electric vehicles on the market. Their newer batteries, however, can be charged up to 90% for daily use while still preserving their long-term health. That means an extra 10% available for whatever life throws at you, whether you're taking an extra-long drive or simply just forget to charge up, you've got more battery to use.
On top of that, the new battery technology brings with it additional range (although the amount varies by model) anyway, giving you even more miles to drive, especially when you're charged to 100%
As an example, with the previous Long Range RWD Model 3, the range was 436 miles, with the newer battery, this gets bumped up to 466. An improvement of 30 miles might not sound groundbreaking, but it means around an extra half hour of motorway driving, which can be the difference between stopping to recharge on the motorway, or enjoying a much cheaper charge at home.
What else is new?
Some other changes that Tesla are bringing, whilst not quite delivering more range, make the experience of driving a Tesla just a little more convenient.
The indicator stalk will be making an appearance on the Model 3 and Y, as opposed to the existing steering-wheel mounted buttons, which is a move that will be welcomed by many, even those that may have gotten used to the mounted controls.
Another quality-of-life change comes in the form of a new front camera, which brings with it a wider field of view than before, making parking or pulling out of tight roads a little bit easier. It also comes with it's own heater and washer system, helping it to stay fog-free and clean in colder months.
If the update to the Model 3 and Model Y has piqued your interest, why not check out some of the offers we currently have here.