In a recent social media posting on X (formerly Twitter), user @mrxex2 unveiled a series of images showcasing what is claimed to be a Tesla Model 3 Highland prototype cruising along a stretch of Germany’s renowned Autobahn. The post, which surfaced a few days ago, captured the attention of EV enthusiasts as discussions around the speculated facelift of the Model 3 gained momentum.
The set of four photographs, captured from a trailing vantage point, were accompanied by a caption identifying the vehicle as a “Tesla Model 3 Highland” sighted on a German highway adjacent to the A4 Lichtenau area.
See also: Tesla readies revamped Model 3 with codenamed “Project Highland”
Upon closer examination of the images, certain observations suggest that the vehicle could indeed be a refreshed Model 3. The camouflage pattern, rear reflectors, and taillights closely resemble those previously seen on camouflaged prototypes encountered in the United States, New Zealand, and China.
Adding to the intrigue, the presence of a red German license plate bearing the prefix “06” in the numeric sequence typically reserved for workshops, dealerships, or manufacturers, raises questions. The alphabetic identifier “GE” corresponds to Gelsenkirchen, a city positioned between Essen and Dortmund. While Tesla’s official presence is absent in Gelsenkirchen, it’s worth noting that a Tesla Center is situated approximately 45 minutes eastward, near Dortmund airport.
Tesla Model 3 Highland Spotted on German Autobahn near A4 Lichtenau pic.twitter.com/2k72oF8DvZ
— mrx rx (@mrxrx2) August 28, 2023
See also: Tesla’s Refreshed Model 3 Spotted with New Wheels
The authenticity of the information, however, remains uncertain, given the limited means of contacting the X user, @mrxex2. Furthermore, the description provided in the post places the prototype on the A4 Autobahn near Lichtenau, a claim contested by a cursory examination of Google Maps, revealing the presence of the A44 rather than the A4 near the city.
In a response within the X thread, the original poster hinted that the observed Tesla was en route to Dusseldorf, aligning with a trajectory towards Dortmund.
Earlier this month, reports emerged indicating that Tesla had adjusted the projected delivery timeline for new Model 3 units in Europe. This move triggered speculations across social media platforms, with some conjecturing that the adjustment might be tied to the imminent commercial launch of the anticipated facelifted model.
Adding fuel to the speculation, sources from China reported that trial production for the updated Model 3 commenced at the Shanghai Gigafactory earlier this month. It is anticipated that mass assembly and subsequent deliveries will kick off in the coming month.
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Referred to as “Project Highland,” the anticipated revamped Tesla Model 3 is rumored to feature a redesigned front fascia, altered rear design incorporating vertical indicator LEDs in lieu of the former horizontal layout, and interior adjustments that reportedly encompass ambient lighting.
As excitement builds among Tesla enthusiasts and industry observers, it’s important to bear in mind that concrete confirmation from official channels is yet to emerge.
