Electrek got more information about Tesla’s new Model S and Model X and some of the minor changes that have not yet been announced.
Tesla officially unveiled the new update for the Model S and Model X yesterday, but surprisingly, it was kind of on the sidelines of the company’s fourth quarter 2020 financial launch.
CEO Elon Musk confirmed that Tesla will make another call to discuss the new Model S and Model X in more detail later this week or next week.
But in the meantime, Electrek has found more information from sources familiar with the new versions of electric vehicles.
We have already taken a deeper dive on the new Tesla steering wheel, which is definitely one of the most interesting changes introduced with the new Model S and Model X.
Now let’s take a look at some more features and changes that Tesla has not yet announced or go into detail about:
Tesla is switching to card phone key for Model S and Model X
Like the Model 3 and Model Y, Tesla is making the primary key for the Model S and Model X your phone via the Tesla app with the updated version released yesterday.
Tesla will provide key cards to set your phone as the key, and there are sensors on the B-pillar and the phone’s charging tray to unlock and start vehicles.
However, the automaker still plans to supply key chains for the most premium vehicles.
Tesla Model S and Model X get chrome exclusions
Like the Model 3 and Model Y, Tesla is not using chrome finishes around the windows and the door handle, but it does not have the same glossy black satin finish as the smaller vehicles.
Instead, Tesla uses a “premium glossy black finish” for the new Model S and Model X.
New Tesla Model S and Model X battery pack
Tesla is introducing new battery modules and overall package architecture in the new Model S and Model X, but it is not the use of the 4680 cells or the structural battery pack announced at Battery Day last year.
In fact, Tesla hasn’t even upgraded to 2170 cells and is still using cell 18650 in Model S and Model X.
The changes mainly focus on thermal performance. For example, the automaker has developed new cooling channels to allow cross-flow, making temperatures more consistent in each channel within the battery.
There are two main performance improvements that are enabled by the new thermal performance of the new battery pack: faster charging which is now on par with the Model 3 and Model Y at 250 kW and repeatability of the power output for run miles or laps consistency.
First-rate cup holders and storage
Tesla designed some retractable cup holders below the sliding door of the new center console on the new Model S and Model X.
The automaker is also introducing new deep pockets on each front door.
New Tesla Model S second row seats
With the Model S update, Tesla redesigned the second row seat to have a more reclined angled seating position. It also increases the space for the legs and head, since the first row is further ahead.
Second row seats also fold flatter than in the previous version of Model S.
In addition, the new folding center console not only offers an armrest and cup holders, but also built-in inductive telephone chargers, such as those in the front.
New screens in the new Model S and Model X
Of course, the second line now also has its own screen – three screens in the new Model S and Model X.
The central display of the main touchscreen is now horizontal, but it is still 17 inches (2 inches larger than on Model 3 and Model Y), and is now tilted (left and right).
The new screen of the second line is also touchscreen and the automaker is finalizing the interaction of the user interface between all monitors.
What about ‘frunk’?
Tesla slightly changed the front trunk (frunk) on the Model S and Model X to accommodate the new powertrain, but apparently does not significantly affect the storage space.
Tesla Model S and Model X trunk updates
It is a similar situation for the trunks, which have changed, but the overall storage space is almost the same. On the Model X, you can now place a full-size set of golf clubs, arranged horizontally, and the ModelS package shelf can now be stored flat in the compartment below the trunk floor.
Tesla’s Next Generation Airwave Temperature Control
The new Model S and Model X are equipped with Tesla’s next generation Airwave temperature control built on the temperature control system first introduced in Model 3.
However, Tesla improved the design and now uses the screen and other glass surfaces in the car to direct the air flow and create the impression that air is coming out of the screens.
It allows the display of an instrument panel while maintaining a complete air flow for the driver, as in Model 3 and Model Y.
The openings are also even more hidden than in Model 3 and Model Y – resulting in a very simple interior.
Push-touch door opening buttons
With the new forced-touch door openings, Tesla has also added release handles that should only be used if there are problems with the previous one.
New tire and wheels
Tesla says it is now using new “advanced tires” on the new Model S and Model X that should result in “greater rolling acidity” and make the ride even smoother.
New interior sensors in the new Tesla Model S and Model X
With the updated version, Tesla introduced the same camera facing the cabin that is found under the rearview mirror on Model 3 and Model Y.
The new Model S and Model X also come with an internal radar for intrusion detection and occupant detection.
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