Tesla has temporarily halted deliveries of the updated 2024 Model 3 in Australia following concerns that the vehicle does not comply with local motor-vehicle regulations.
This pause comes after a recent media report disclosed that Tesla had eliminated access to a child-seat anchor point in the revised Model 3, rendering it non-compliant with Australian Design Rules.
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The investigation initiated by Australian authorities revealed that the updated Model 3 lacked a top-tether point for securing child seats in the middle rear seat, a requirement for all five-seat passenger vehicles with three rear seatbelts under local regulations. In the prior Model 3, a top-tether point was accessible through a flap on the parcel shelf, but this feature is absent in the redesigned version.
It has been noted that the 2024 Model 3 does have a top-tether point, but it is only accessible after removing the rear-seat headrests.
Tesla Australia acknowledged the issue in a statement on Facebook, announcing a pause in Model 3 deliveries from January 17 to address the technical compliance matter. The company assured customers that resolving this matter is a top priority and expects to resume deliveries in the coming weeks. It also expressed regret for any inconvenience caused.
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The question remains whether Tesla will issue a recall for the 2024 Model 3s already delivered in Australia, a matter that currently lacks clarification.
