Tesla Refreshes Model S With Restyled Nose And Faster 48 Amp Onboard Charger
The new front end leaves a small opening below the leading the edge of the hood which houses the Tesla emblem, but that’s about it. We hope that Tesla transfers this design tweak to the Model 3, which has been criticized for its odd-looking, expressionless front design.
The Model S also now features full LED headlights (14 elements), which include adaptive lighting technology. The swiveling, three-position headlamps allow drivers to “see” around corners at night, improving safety.
Inside, the Model S has gained the Model X’s “medical grade” HEPA filtration system. Tesla says that it “removes at least 99.97% of particulate exhaust pollution and effectively all allergens, bacteria and other contaminants from cabin air,” but stops short of saying that it has a Bioweapon Defense Mode like the Model X. Other changes inside come in the form of Figured Ash and Dark Ash interior trim options — the rumored interior quality upgrade is nowhere to be found, however.
Also missing in action is the rumored 100kWh battery option. A resourceful Model S owner found code for a 100kWh P100D laying in wait last month, but Elon Musk and crew appear to be saving that upgrade for a later reveal. On a related note, the onboard charger has been upgraded from 40 amps to 48 amps, which should allow for faster charging at supported locations. Customers will also have the option of upgrading to the 72-amp charger that is found in the Model X.
The restyled Model S goes into production today. If you’ve already placed a recent order for a Model S, you’ll automatically receive all of the standard updates revealed today.
