Out with stalks. In with scrolls and AI.
Tesla Inc.'s flagship sedan is getting a major interior makeover for the first time since it was launched in 2012.
The changes feature a larger, horizontally oriented touch screen, a revised center console and a new U-shaped steering wheel, as well as a new screen for the back seat. The exterior also receives minor tweaks.
As part of the update, the automaker is adding a Plaid+ trim with a 520-mile range, starting at $141,190. The base "long range" trim gets 412 miles to a charge and now starts at $81,190. Prices include $1,200 for shipping.
"It's really a tremendous improvement over the prior version," Tesla CEO Elon Musk said last week.
The company is also updating the Model X crossover with similar interior features and a Plaid trim with a 340-mile range that starts at $121,190, including shipping.
The Model X is also getting a new screen for rear passengers.
The new steering wheel features the same scrolls equipped on the Model 3 and Model Y but uses new force touch buttons to activate turn signals, high beams, the horn, Autopilot, windshield wipers and voice commands.
Such functions will eventually be performed automatically by the vehicle, Tesla says.
The drive-mode stalk — for park, reverse, neutral and drive — has also been replaced by touch buttons.
Tesla plans to rely on Autopilot and artificial intelligence to determine and activate which drive mode a driver wants, Electrek reported, citing internal company documents.
