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420 Anyone? The new version of Tesla is the most powerful Model 3 ever

Posted on by darion

Performance of the new Model 3

The latest Tesla Model 3, the fastest yet, could have a significant impact on Tesla’s lineup. Speculation suggests that an updated Performance Model 3, potentially named “Ludicrous”, could be unveiled soon – possibly on April 20. This would, of course, happen on 420, which coincides with Elon Musk’s preference for a date that falls 69 days before his birthday -Nice.

Improved performance and engineering

“Welcome to the most powerful Model 3 ever,” announces a source code teaser for the UK-based Model 3 configurator, setting the stage for an electric sedan that outperforms its predecessors in every way. At the heart of the new Model 3 Performance are all-new, high-performance powertrains that are said to deliver a total output of over 500 horsepower. This increase in power isn’t just about the higher numbers, but also how that translates onto the asphalt.

Tesla has redesigned the vehicle with an entirely new adaptive suspension system. This system, based on specially developed software, provides better control of the vehicle, maintaining comfort without sacrificing performance. The result is a vehicle that handles your daily commute as smoothly as it tackles tight corners on a racetrack.

Advanced design and aerodynamics

The Model 3 Performance features redesigned front and rear bumpers and a rear diffuser that enhance visual appeal and improve high-speed stability. The carbon fiber spoiler increases aerodynamic efficiency while enhancing the car’s sporty aesthetics.

One of the standout features of the new model are the Forged Performance wheels. These lightweight, offset wheels aren’t just about style; they improve the vehicle’s cornering response, improve predictability and increase cornering grip, all while optimizing aerodynamics.

Where comfort meets performance

Inside, the Tesla Model 3 Performance introduces a completely renovated interior. The all-new seat design includes improved side bolsters and cushions that keep passengers securely in place, which is crucial during high-speed maneuvers. Ventilation built into the seats keeps the driver and passengers cool and comfortable, reflecting a thoughtful balance between performance and luxury. The cabin’s aesthetics are enhanced by lightweight carbon fiber trim and a refined weave pattern unique to the Model 3 Performance.

A highlight is Track Mode V3, an innovative feature that allows drivers to adjust handling balance, stability control and regenerative braking to their preferences. This mode integrates the performance-optimized powertrain with adaptive suspension control, providing a driving experience that is not only responsive, but also enjoyable.

The unveiling of the Model 3 Performance is imminent, as evidenced by its addition to the configurator’s source code. There is speculation that the media embargo will be lifted on December 23, possibly coinciding with Tesla’s earnings day, which could provide further details and even lead to an official launch. My money’s on April 20, which will give the weekend all the influencers who saw this early to increase their views and bring the stock (down 40% year-to-date) some time to rebound before earnings are announced.

Tesla FSD visuals are undoubtedly one of the coolest parts of owning a Tesla. Seeing vehicles all around you on the screen and watching the car make decisions can be mesmerizing.

However, have you ever wondered exactly how a car generates visualizations? Does this happen in real time or is it based on map data downloaded separately from the vehicle software?

Map data

Tesla distributes map data to vehicles worldwide regardless of vehicle firmware version. This means that map data updates may have a different pace than firmware updates. For example, some cars from 2024.8.9 (FSD V11 from ~3 months ago) as well as cars from 2024.14.7 (FSD V12 from just a few days ago) have just started receiving NA-2024.8-14924 map update last week. With these updates, vehicles can obtain the most up-to-date information about road systems, traffic patterns and other critical driving data.

While FSD can typically work with different versions of maps, how much do FSD and in-car visualizations rely on predefined map data? Of course he uses it for some purposes, such as reducing speed, but does he use it for something more? Thanks to user ArthurFromX on X, we now have a better idea of ​​how much it depends on map data.

FSD visualizations

Tesla’s FSD visualizations are based on a combination of pre-mapped data and information collected in real time by cameras. This approach provides both background context (pre-mapped data) and real-time context via computer vision.

This all adds up to an accurate representation of what the car sees around it, taking into account the width, height and length of nearby vehicles, curbs and other objects such as trash bins and traffic cones.

The post on X highlights that background data may have a greater impact on FSD visualizations than initially thought. The post mentioned that the construction of a local roundabout caused the visuals to be inaccurate, even though the car was moving in and out of the lane correctly.

This suggests that while real-time data is critical, the accuracy of pre-mapped data still plays a significant role in the overall effectiveness of FSD visualization and perhaps a lesser role in the actual FSD decision-making process.

FSD navigation

Of course, these visualizations affect more than just what you see on the screen. Map data and real-time data provide information about how the vehicle plans its route and makes driving decisions, such as moving to the right or left lane as needed.

The map data most likely provides general information, allowing on-board equipment to process and work on driving the vehicle with an initial idea of ​​where it is and what the road looks like.

In short, map data plays a supporting role in actually driving the FSD, but it plays a larger role in route decisions, as well as providing context and predictions about what the vehicle sees. At the moment, the visualizations appear to be based on a combination of map data and camera data collected by the vehicle.

For a full list of supported FSD visualizations, please visit our FSD visualizations page.

Tesla Vehicle Safety Report Q1 2024

Tesla has released its updated Q1 2024 Vehicle Safety Report, showing significant improvements in Autopilot safety.

Quarterly improvements

For Tesla vehicles driven manually and using Tesla safety features, Tesla recorded nearly 1 million miles driven before the crash, compared to about 500,000 miles for the U.S. industry average.

On the other hand, for vehicles using Autopilot or FSD, Tesla averaged almost 7.63 million miles driven before the crash, a 15-fold increase over the U.S. average. This represents a significant improvement over the last quarter, in which the Tesla averaged 4.3 million miles before the accident, an improvement of almost 50% year-over-year.

The Model Y was the Top Safety Choice+ for 2023

Tesla’s active safety features

Tesla’s active safety features play a big role in the huge increase in miles driven to accident rates, and key features like lane departure avoidance and automatic emergency braking (AEB) play a major role in keeping Tesla drivers safe on the road. Tesla recently updated its vehicles so that automatic emergency braking works in reverse and at speeds above 100 mph. As of 2023, AEB now also works for vehicles traveling perpendicular to Tesla vehicles.

In addition to Tesla’s active safety features, they also have some of the safest cars in the world due to the way they are built. Recently, Vice President Lars Moravy shared a video (below) that explains the Tesla’s front Gigas assembly and why it makes the vehicle much safer.

Safety updates and engagement

In addition to improving safety features, Tesla regularly updates its vehicles with new safety features, such as a recent update to the frequency of hazard warning lights. Tesla is committed to developing the safest cars in the world, and Tesla drivers regularly avoid accidents that could crush or injure other vehicles.

Tesla Models S, X, 3 and Y have the lowest overall probability of injury among vehicles tested by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and consistently earn near-perfect ratings in crash tests.