Electric vehicle giant Tesla plans to introduce a new “efficiency package” for some of its offerings amid growing range concerns.
What’s currently known about the efficiency package?
Tesla software hacker @greentheonly spotted the hardware changes in the 2023.44.30.8 vehicle firmware. The X post noted that the new “efficiency package” will be available for the Tesla Model S, X, and Y.
In response to a query from X user @BlueTeslaEV, green clarified that Tesla usually employs an “efficiency package” update when there are some changes in the battery or drivetrain that affect the rated mileage.
However, what the “efficiency package” specifically includes remains vague. In hindsight, Tesla mentioned something similar in the Model 3’s 2021 refresh.
Tesla lowers range estimates
Tesla’s alleged plans to launch a new “efficiency package” are apparently due to the growing range concerns across its electric vehicle lineup.
Tesla recently lowered the range estimates of some Model S, X, and Y variants. The Tesla Model S Plaid with 19″ wheels configuration’s range rating dropped to 359 miles from the previous 396 miles.
The Tesla Model X Plaid also had a range decline from 333 miles to 326 miles. Moreover, the Tesla Model Y Performance displayed an 18-mile range reduction to 285 range. Meanwhile, the Long Range variant’s range dropped to 310 miles.
Tesla’s range rating reduction is due to the EPA’s more stringent testing approach to “ensure all label data is generated in a consistent manner that will better reflect real-world performance, and to reduce testing burden for the industry.”
Other updates
As you can see in @greentheonly’s X post, it also suggested that Tesla may introduce a new yoke with a mechanical horn in the center for the Model S and X.
For context, Tesla has used the steering wheel’s small button to activate the horn since the Model S’ debut in 2021. Other interesting details about the upcoming hardware are as follows:
- Mexico-UNECE homologated Model Y
- Model Y will get a Stealth Grey color
Focusing on the new efficiency package, Tesla may be seeking to enhance the abovementioned models’ efficiency to regain the lost range caused by the EPA rule update. That said, the reported package can significantly aid Tesla’s efforts to enable more range.
