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Tesla Model S Refresh Details Leaked

A Tesla Model S/X refresh has been on everyone’s minds for ages now, and it seems like some much-needed changes may finally be on the horizon.  But might those changes be more than originally anticipated?

We are already aware that Tesla is working on rolling out a permanent magnet motor upgrade for both the Model S and the Model X, as it is more efficient than the current induction motor.  We also know that Tesla plans to update the interiors to more closely match the Model 3, which may or may not be good since some owners consider the Model 3 to be a luxury downgrade.  Then there is the horizontal screen, the Hardware 3 computer, keyless entry, a full powertrain update… there are plenty of features which could be added in a much-needed refresh. 

As reported by Fred Lambert over at Electrek.co, however, we may see even more than that. 

Sources unnamed by Lambert state that there are some pretty significant changes which Tesla could put into effect at the same time as the ones listed previously.  His sources dug into the code and found some interesting things– namely involving the battery and CCS charging. 

Tesla Model S Getting the Model 3 Battery?

According to Lambert, data mining the code revealed that Tesla is using the code for the 2170 battery cells found in the Model 3 to allow for Model S and Model X compatibility.  Does this mean that those models might receive new battery packs?  It is hard to tell right now what kind of battery pack capacity the Model S and Model X might end up with in such a case, but it seems logical that it would be higher than the current 100 kWh capacity.  That means more range, and that would definitely be a big win for consumers.

If the Model S and Model X do receive an updated battery, it would be reasonable to assume that it could handle a higher charge rate as well.  The newly updated vehicles would probably be compatible with Tesla’s new Supercharger V3 and its 250 kW fast charge rate. 

The Combined Charging System

Another possibility reported by Lambert would be a change to the charge ports.  His sources report code in place to handle CCS charging, which could make the Model S and Model X more universally adaptable when it comes to finding a recharge station.  This could be geared more towards European markets where CCS compatibility is more expected, but it could very well be applied in other markets as well. 


So while there is no solid verification from Tesla as to how much of this is fact and how much is pure speculation, the fact of the matter is that such changes could really benefit Tesla.  As we previously reported, sales on Tesla’s older models are experiencing a huge slump in favor of the newer Model 3. A big upgrade with a Tesla Model S refresh could help raise sales on it as well as on the Model X and do wonders for Tesla’s sales numbers.

But Tesla is not one for announcing coming updates, seemingly preferring to surprise consumers with whatever changes they will make.  They are one of the only automakers who rolls out updates at will instead of by the standard model year.  Without an actual date set for such an update, all we can do is wait and hope to see it come soon.

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