Tesla’s flagship Model S sedan may be preparing for a European return after new regulatory filings indicated updated type approval for 2026 model-year versions, suggesting the company has secured certification for refreshed variants.
In mid-July, Tesla removed the Model S and Model X from its European online configurator, halting new orders and limiting buyers to existing inventory. The move sparked speculation that the automaker could phase out its premium lineup in the region.
However, regulatory documents shared by X user Julien show revisions to the Model S Long Range and Model S Plaid, including range improvements, a softer suspension, and the addition of a front bumper camera. The Long Range version is now rated at 744 km (462 miles) on 19-inch wheels under the WLTP cycle, compared with 651 km (404 miles) on 21-inch wheels previously. The Plaid variant also saw its WLTP rating rise to 611 km (380 miles) on 21-inch wheels, alongside minor efficiency and weight adjustments.
Additional changes include a 3 kg weight reduction and a new top speed capped at 240 km/h. Both models retain the Panasonic NCA100 battery pack and dual-motor configuration. Filings also showed the removal of one Plaid variant, underscoring Tesla’s focus on streamlining its offerings.
The Model X, however, did not feature in the latest type approval updates, raising questions about its future in Europe. The absence suggests Tesla may be prioritizing the sedan for reentry while assessing options for its larger SUV.
Historically, models Tesla no longer intends to produce stop receiving type approval updates. The new filings indicate the company is keeping open the possibility of relaunching the Model S, though no timeline has been confirmed. After a similar pause following the 2021 refresh, European customers waited nearly two years before deliveries resumed.
