In a promising development for international Tesla enthusiasts, the electric vehicle giant has revealed a right-hand drive version of its upgraded 2024 Model 3, codenamed “Project Highland.” This unveiling has sparked speculation about the car’s potential arrival in new markets, including Australia.
The initial introduction of the revamped Model 3 took place in Norway just last week, where it garnered the attention of eager journalists. However, all the vehicles showcased at that event were left-hand drive models, leaving enthusiasts in right-hand drive countries eagerly awaiting their chance to experience this sleek and improved version.
Late last week, another significant milestone was reached as the new Model 3 made its debut in Tokyo, Japan. This exciting development was first reported by Business Insider Japan and quickly shared by Tesla enthusiasts on platforms like “X” by Tesla, where user Tslachan was among the first to spread the news.
$TSLA 🇯🇵 1/3
Detailed photo of the new Model 3 Highland that debuted in Japan today pic.twitter.com/wM82FVuCxW— Tsla Chan (@Tslachan) September 8, 2023
At the Tokyo event, a pristine white Model 3 took the spotlight, featuring the characteristic narrower headlights and a cleaner front design. This marked one of the first official sightings of a right-hand-drive variant of the upgraded Model 3.
This unveiling strongly hints at the possibility of an increased production of right-hand-drive units as part of Tesla’s manufacturing plans. Moreover, it raises expectations that showroom examples of the upgraded Model 3 will soon find their way to additional markets with similar driving configurations, including Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong.
In Japan, Tesla’s online configurator has begun displaying estimated delivery times ranging from December 2023 to March 2024, further fueling anticipation among prospective buyers. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong configurator suggests that estimated delivery times for the fourth quarter of 2023 are on the horizon. Notably, Hong Kong’s offering currently includes only the Long Range dual-motor variant, while other markets continue to offer the Rear-Wheel Drive Model 3 alongside the Long Range variant.
The introduction of the right-hand-drive Model 3 in Japan and the potential expansion into other markets signifies Tesla’s commitment to providing cutting-edge electric vehicles to a global audience. As eager buyers in various countries eagerly await their chance to experience the latest upgrades, Tesla continues to make strides in reshaping the future of sustainable transportation.
Source: Thedriven