Tesla is rolling out fresh digital entry animations for its Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, providing owners with a novel visual experience. These new graphics will display whenever a driver opens the door to enter the car, enhancing the in-cabin aesthetic.
The refreshed Tesla Model 3, a prominent battery-electric vehicle, recently underwent an extensive real-world road test alongside the Mazda 6e. This direct comparison provides a practical evaluation of both models in everyday driving conditions. The Mazda 6e is a new PHEV from the Japanese automaker.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has denied a petition to investigate alleged defects in the manual door releases of 2022 Tesla Model 3 vehicles. This decision comes despite the agency simultaneously announcing plans to develop new door safety regulations that will apply to all automakers. NHTSA cited a lack of widespread complaints as the reason for denying the Tesla-specific probe.
The Tesla Model Y and Model 3 continue to dominate electric vehicle sales in the United States, maintaining their long-standing lead in the market. While Tesla holds a significant share, the rest of the top 10 list reveals a mix of newer entries and established players carving out their positions in the evolving US EV landscape.
Tesla is offering to buy back 15 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles that were manufactured in its Shanghai Gigafactory or Berlin Gigafactory and inadvertently imported into the United States. These vehicles are subject to an unusual federal recall because they do not meet U.S. regulatory standards, such as those for seatbelt warnings and pedestrian alert systems, prompting the company to rectify the issue by repurchasing them from owners.
A recent analysis of nearly 10,000 real-world EV battery tests indicates that Tesla Model 3 vehicles equipped with LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery packs maintain their charge capacity more effectively than those using nickel-based chemistry. The study found that LFP-powered Model 3s by CATL averaged 93.3% battery health after exceeding 62,000 miles, surpassing all nickel-based variants in the dataset. This suggests significant long-term durability advantages for the LFP technology.
Amid concerns over vehicle depreciation following its recent price adjustments, Tesla has launched a new "Guaranteed Future Value" (GFV) program. This initiative aims to reassure buyers by setting a resale price for new Model 3 and Model Y vehicles financed through Tesla, mitigating potential losses from future market fluctuations.
Tesla has launched a new air mattress specifically designed for its Model 3, enhancing the car camping experience for owners. This new accessory, powered via USB, aims to offer a comfortable and integrated solution for those who enjoy utilizing their EV for outdoor adventures.
A 2023 Tesla Model 3 equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack reportedly experienced a 10% capacity degradation after just 26,000 miles. While not critically poor, this level of wear is more significant than frequently advertised for LFP batteries, which are often cited for their exceptional longevity.
A Tesla Model 3 Performance owner discovered considerable battery degradation in their four-year-old vehicle, with an official Tesla diagnostics test showing an 88% battery health. This finding was even lower than anticipated by the owner's initial estimates and a third-party app's prediction. The disparity raises questions about typical battery longevity and user expectations.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has concluded its safety probe into approximately 376,000 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles regarding allegations of steering component failures. This lengthy investigation has now been formally closed by the U.S. auto safety regulator after its review.
The Tesla Model 3 has been recognized with the prestigious Auto Express Driver Power Award for 2026. This accolade underscores its lasting appeal and performance in the highly competitive UK electric vehicle market. The Model 3 continues to impress owners with its blend of technology, driving dynamics, and overall ownership experience.
A Tesla Model 3 used as a rental car experienced a significant 20% decline in battery capacity within its first two years. However, data now suggests that the rate of degradation has considerably slowed since that initial sharp drop. This case study offers insights into long-term battery health, even under demanding usage conditions.