Tesla appears to have started filing paperwork with the City of Fremont for “Project Highland” in June, as per Teslarati. Notably, this project is a prospective revamp of the automaker’s Model 3 electric sedan.
Tesla Model 3’s relevance to the Project Highland
Late November reports indicated that Tesla Model 3 is undergoing a significant makeover. Reuters reported that the Model 3 would have fewer parts and improved infotainment systems.
Furthermore, sources knowledgeable about Project Highland also said the Model 3’s external styling and powertrain could change.
However, it must be noted that the automaker still needs to confirm the speculations, especially if the Model 3 revamp is relevant to Project Highland.
Tesla’s submitted filings
Tesla is confirmed to have submitted the necessary filings for the project since late Q2 of this year.
As per the report, the first submissions were labeled “Highland BL3 HOL Demo” and described as follows:
“Demolition of existing equipment and utilities in preparation for new Hang on Line. Demolition of existing slab-on-grade, pit excavation, and construction of new concrete pit at first floor of assembly building.”
For those unaware, HOL, or “Hang On-Line,” is an assembly line design that Tesla uses in part at its Fremont factory for the Model 3.
Tesla’s subsequent filings are as follows: August 16, September 2, October 4, and December 8. These papers are reportedly related to revising plans and installing fire alarms, except those filed on December 8.
Tesla’s latest filing on December 8 was about developing a $20,000 temporary Sprung Structure for Model 3 production. That said, these facilities will initially handle the production from its completion by May 1, 2023, until the Fremont factory is ready.
These filings reveal Tesla’s private moves to push through with its Project Highland. It also now makes sense why Tesla has been reorganizing the Fremont factory, as it may be preparing for the launch of Project Highland.
