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Tesla's surprise reintroduction: electric vehicle recaptures a standard feature found in nearly all vehicles!

Tesla Model 3, a widely acclaimed electric sedan, restores a common car feature in its 2026 update. The question remains whether this improved version will reach the shores of New Zealand.

Tesla restores a standard feature: the sought-after electric vehicle reclaims a capability found in...
Tesla restores a standard feature: the sought-after electric vehicle reclaims a capability found in nearly all vehicles!

Tesla's surprise reintroduction: electric vehicle recaptures a standard feature found in nearly all vehicles!

Tesla Brings Back Indicator Stalks to Model 3 in China

In a move to address criticism from motoring media and customers, Tesla has updated the Model 3 electric sedan in China, adding a physical indicator stalk behind the steering wheel. This decision comes after the removal of the indicator stalks in the 2023 Model 3 'Highland' update, which replaced them with buttons on the steering wheel.

The new physical indicator stalk, similar to the one the Model Y received in its 'Juniper' update, is slimmer and offers a more traditional driving experience. This update will be available for the Model 3 'Highland' starting in late September 2023, with sales planned to commence at this time.

Interestingly, all versions of the Tesla Model 3 are currently manufactured in China. Tesla has also announced a retrofit for the physical indicator stalk for existing Model 3 'Highland' owners, with the service scheduled to begin mid-September. The cost for this retrofit, including the physical indicator stalk and the removal of the steering wheel-mounted indicator buttons, is ¥2499 (NZ$598).

However, it's important to note that the new physical indicator stalk does not include a button for a single window wipe and the washer fluid. Regarding the availability of this update in other regions, Tesla has not confirmed when the updated Model 3 with the physical indicator stalk will be available in New Zealand or if a retrofit will be offered to existing owners.

The Model Y, on the other hand, received a physical indicator stalk as part of its 'Juniper' update, a decision that was well-received by drivers. The Model S and Model X vehicles, Tesla's flagship vehicles, previously lost their indicator stalks behind the steering wheel, but it remains to be seen if they will follow the Model 3's lead in this update.

This move by Tesla demonstrates the company's commitment to listening to customer feedback and continually improving its vehicles to meet the needs of its drivers. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how Tesla and other manufacturers adapt to the changing landscape and the demands of their customers.

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