The Tesla Model S and Model X are set to
receive a handful of upgrades for the 2021 model year, Tesla hacker and
enthusiast Greentheonly has revealed on Twitter. While recently digging through
the software of the vehicles, the hacker found mention of various upgrades in
the works. One of the most important updates for 2021 will be the introduction
of wireless phone charging for the Model S and Model X, features Tesla has
sorely lacked in recent years despite the tech-focused nature of the electric
car manufacturer.
Tesla recently updated its website to
include the wireless phone charger as a standard feature for the Model S and
Model X. Elsewhere, the hacker found evidence of two new battery types that
will be available for the Model S and Model X in several configurations, but
the capacities of these units remain unclear. Clean Technica speculates the new
batteries could see the Model S and Model X switch from their traditional 18650
battery cells to the more advanced 2170 cells of the Model 3. It’s also
possible that models with larger battery capacities than the current 100 kWh
pack are just around the corner.
Other upgrades mentioned include something
dubbed “new lumbar” (perhaps new seats) and a new charge port type that may
allow Tesla owners to use CCS charging stations. Also mentioned is a new
suspension system that will likely offer improved ride comfort. No mention is
made about the 2021 Model S and Model X receiving the same
horizontally-oriented infotainment display as the Model 3 and Model Y, as some
recent reports have indicated.
Tesla is expected to announce these new
features and upgrades imminently.
