Is A Tesla Model 3 'Sport' Variant Coming? What A Hacker's 'Random Findings' Reveal

EV giant Tesla Inc. TSLA is reportedly gearing up to roll out a “Sport” variant of its refreshed Model 3. The variant may feature different front seats and interiors, unlike usual Tesla variants where differences are mostly performance-based.

What Happened: Tesla’s latest software update indicates the introduction of a “Sport” version for the refreshed Model 3 in addition to a “base” version, Electrek reported, citing a hacker who goes by the name ‘Green.’ The variant is believed to come with new front seats, designed for improved side support, and headrests.

“Refreshed model3 will also have different manual door release mechanisms,” Green wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Interestingly, this would be a first for Tesla, which has traditionally focused on enhancing the performance aspects of its vehicles for higher-end variants, such as suspension, brakes, and powertrain, rather than modifying the interior features.

However, it’s still unclear whether these seats will be the standard interior on the ‘sport’ version or if it will be offered as part of an interior package, the report added.

Why It Matters: Tesla unveiled the refreshed Model 3 rear-wheel drive in China in late August priced at 259,900 yuan (~$35,525), 12% higher than the former Model 3 vehicle priced at 231,900 yuan ($31,698). The new Model 3 has a greater range of up to 629km on a single charge, LED lighting in the interiors, a rear touchscreen, and a better sound system. Official deliveries of the vehicle are expected to start on Thursday in China.

The company refused to answer questions on when the refreshed model 3 will be available in the U.S. during the company’s third-quarter earnings call earlier this month.

"I just wanted to address that unfortunately we don’t answer product-related questions and timings on earnings calls," VP of Investor Relations Martin Viecha said.

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