An intriguing Tesla Model 3 test vehicle was recently sighted in Palo Alto, California, featuring a distinct setup that caught the attention of electric vehicle enthusiasts. Images of the vehicle, shared by advocate Nic Cruz Patane on social media platform X, revealed a Model 3 stripped of its side mirrors and equipped with cameras in unconventional locations.
Among the notable changes observed in the test vehicle were cameras mounted inside the cabin, positioned behind the driver’s seat and seemingly pointing out the rear windows. Additionally, the vehicle’s front fender cameras appeared to be different, while the trunk camera was raised compared to standard Model 3 configurations.
This is VERY interesting.
A refresh Model 3 was spotted without any side mirrors, and testing all new camera locations. (Rear window, trunk, side repeaters)
The car was seen in Palo Alto.
What do we think?Thanks for the pics! @MrSaltyP pic.twitter.com/fOC838T3qn
— Nic Cruz Patane (@niccruzpatane) May 15, 2024
Despite Tesla not providing an official explanation for the modified Model 3, speculations abound among Tesla enthusiasts. Some suggest that the interior cameras could be related to a smaller vehicle, possibly the anticipated Robotaxi “Cybercab,” which is expected to be smaller than the Model 3.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced plans to unveil the Robotaxi “Cybercab” at an event on August 8, 2024. Interestingly, Tesla appears to be preparing for the launch of its Robotaxi service in China. Reports from earlier this month indicated that Musk proposed tests of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system on vehicles deployed in the Chinese market, potentially making China the first country to experience Tesla’s Robotaxi service.
