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Europe may see an update to the Tesla Model S, as indicated by recent filings.

Tesla's luxury Model S and Model X models may be making a comeback in Europe. Recent European type approval filings, discovered by user @eivissacopter, indicate the automaker has obtained certification for updated 2026 model-year versions, notably for the Model S, suggesting a potential return...

Europe may soon witness the arrival of the refreshed Tesla Model S, according to recent filings.
Europe may soon witness the arrival of the refreshed Tesla Model S, according to recent filings.

Europe may see an update to the Tesla Model S, as indicated by recent filings.

Tesla Secures European Approval for Refreshed 2026 Model S and Model X

Tesla has secured European type approval for the refreshed 2026 Model S and Model X, according to regulatory documents filed on July 18. The updated luxury electric vehicles (EVs) are now certified by the European type approval authorities, meeting the regulatory certification requirements for production and sale in the European Union.

The filings suggest a possible reintroduction of the Model S in Europe, as it is included in the updated documents. A front fascia camera has been added to the updated Model S, as indicated by the filings. Changes to suspension components, revisions to statutory plates, and VIN breakdowns and adjustments to maximum vehicle design speed are also part of the updates for the Model S. The Model S has a slight 3 kg weight reduction.

Interestingly, the Model X shows no sign of updates yet, suggesting a possible prioritization of the sedan for its European return. The Model S Plaid is now WLTP-rated for 611 km (380 miles) on 21-inch wheels, while the Model S Long Range is now WLTP-rated for 744 km (462 miles) on 19-inch wheels. The top speed of the Model S is now capped at 240 km/h.

The sudden removal of Model S and Model X from the European online configurator last month raised speculation about their phase-out. However, the new regulatory documents indicate that Tesla is not planning to phase out its luxury sedan and SUV lineup in Europe.

In a move that may affect the pricing of these EVs, Tesla raised prices by $10,000 across all Model S/X variants in the U.S. earlier this month. The updated models in the U.S. were launched in June with new features and updates. One Plaid variant of the Model S has been deleted, suggesting Tesla's ongoing streamlining of its lineup.

The new orders in the U.S. now include the Luxe Package, which bundles premium perks like free FSD and Supercharging. The Model S Plaid is now WLTP-rated, a certification required for EVs sold in the European Union. The certifications are often granted by national vehicle authorities such as Germany’s Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA).

It's worth noting that Tesla halted Model S and X orders in China earlier this year due to escalating tariffs from the U.S.-China trade war. The company has yet to announce any plans for the return of these models to the Chinese market.

In conclusion, the updated 2026 Model S and Model X are now ready for the European market, with improvements in performance, safety, and efficiency. The filings provide a clear indication that Tesla is committed to maintaining its presence in the European luxury EV market.

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