Last month, Tesla halted production on its Model S and X assembling for almost 3 weeks and the result of that has been updated vehicle models coming to market within the next 3 months. Tesla CEO, Elon Musk has shared photos of the latest Model S design in its 2020 financial report as well as via the CEO’s Twitter feed.
The Model S received a few exterior adjustments such as a more streamlined hood, but it is the interior that got significant modifications. The new steering wheel is a notable change in a yoke-style design and a display console for rear passengers, which is part of Tesla’s aggressive development in its infotainment offering.
In addition to the changes in aesthetics, Tesla has also updated the Model S battery pack, powertrain, battery pack, and drive units on its new EVs. The Long Range Model S due to be available in the first quarter will have a range of 412 miles with the Model S Plaid having a target range of 390 miles. The Model S Plaid+ which sits at the top end will have an impressive range of 520 miles with a tri-motor powertrain and expected to come to market later this year.
Remodeling and improving its vehicle designs is a key factor in Tesla’s strategy that keeps its fleet fresh and exciting while adding new vehicles to its product range, such as the Cybertruck, Semi, and Roadster that are still due to come to market.
It is predicted that the auto industry will see an estimated 500 different electric vehicles by next year and while most the manufacturers are focusing on car production, we’re seeing little in terms of charging infrastructure investment. Tesla is still the EV leader because consumers choose its all-electric products because they are confident there is no lack of recharge stations around the country.
The current network of charging stations in the USA is fractured when it comes to ownership and technology. If you’re not driving a Tesla cross-country, the choice for guaranteed access to rapid charging facilities is limited. Becoming an EV manufacturer is multi-dimensional as its more than just producing a good electric car. Nissan is a clear example of what happens if the infrastructure isn’t in place for customers. Back in 2011 to 2014, the Nissan Leaf was highly popular, but it did not develop a fast-charging network to support its product, so its consumers had to make do with a limited number of third-party stations that served all auto brands.
However, Tesla rolled out its own proprietary network from east to west across the states, and today it has plentiful locations nationwide that addresses any concern buyers have when it comes to vehicle charging. And because Tesla owns this network, the EV company have full control over the pricing it offers customers, its locations, and expansions.
A newcomer to the EV industry, Rivian has shown initiative in looking at building out its charging network even though it has yet to sell one vehicle. But it is the only other auto all-electric manufacturer, other than Tesla, who is seriously investing in its own platform. Developing a charging network comes with its but it is one way for an EV manufacturer to set up a good position to attract customers.
Tesla also ensured its lead through its advancement in its FSD capabilities that has provided the US based company with data from its fleet to further improve on its self-driving technology, as well as gain insight into drivers’ behaviors. All of this can used to take Tesla further ahead while rivals are working to simply get a place in the EV market.
Tesla has shown that integrating smart strategies have been key to its success. Having a solid infrastructure and striving for continuous innovation and redesign indicates there is more to building smart cars in order to be considered a smart player in the EV industry.
