Tesla has showcased its newest car and given it a different name in the region: the "Upgraded Model 3." This unveiling occurred in one of Asia's premier metropolises, with much fanfare, introduced to the world at a launch event that celebrated Tesla's innovations and marked the debut of Asia's first Gigafactory Museum.
New Configuration and Pricing Details
The announcement came through Tesla's Hong Kong website, inviting enthusiasts to Olympian City from October 12 to 25 to witness firsthand the majestic revamp of the iconic Model 3.
The details, freshly sourced from Tesla's Hong Kong website, indicate that the Model 3 Highland will be available in a single, power-packed configuration: a dual motor all-wheel drive. The local price for the vehicle is 461,345 HKD (equivalent to $58,992.14 USD). Tesla is positioning the vehicle as a premium offering in its segment.
A Nostalgic Journey Through Video
A great video (below) showcases the Model 3's journey from its inception in Hong Kong in 2019 to its current "Highland" iteration. The poignant piano tones, paired with nostalgic visuals that capture families reveling in the Model 3's embrace, transitions seamlessly into an upbeat montage that highlights the electric vehicle's aesthetic evolution.
Meet Upgraded Model 3 in Hong Kong 🇭🇰 pic.twitter.com/QUXN397bnI
— Tesla Hong Kong 香港 (@teslahongkong) October 12, 2023
Interestingly, the naming conventions surrounding this new Model 3 have varied, with terms like "refreshed Model 3", "New Model 3," and "2024 Model 3" making rounds.
The Gigafactory Museum Experience
However, the launch isn't just about the car. Tesla's Gigafactory Museum, making its first appearance in Asia, opens its doors to curious minds. For years, Tesla's manufacturing intricacies have remained shrouded in secrecy. This museum aims to pull back the curtains, giving visitors unparalleled insight into the company's commitment to safety, innovation, and efficiency during production. It resembles the Peterson Museum in Los Angeles display with a few more factory components.
Spectacular Enhancements and Features
Back to the car. We knew the wheels were changing, but now we see the name. The latest images adorning the website give enthusiasts a visual treat. The Model 3 now sports upgraded 19-inch sport wheels, aptly named "Nova wheels," which add to its already sleek and modern design.
To refresh your memory on some of the other enhancements, a lighter frame and improved aerodynamics drop the drag coefficient to a stunning 0.219, resulting in an 11-12% bump in the driving range. Acoustic enhancements reduce external noise disturbances, amplifying the luxury experience within the vehicle. The cabin gets a makeover, too, with ambient LED lighting, an advanced 17-speaker sound system, and even a sophisticated 8-inch touchscreen for the rear passengers, akin to the high-end Model S and Model X.
For those eager to get behind the wheel, there's good news. Tesla estimates deliveries to commence this quarter. This suggests that the wait won't be long for Hong Kong people who've set their sights on this electric beauty. However, there is still no news of when the Highland will be crossing the ocean and hitting the roads in North America.
