Rumor Mill: Next-Gen Tesla Model S/X To Get New Battery, 3 Motors

According to the YouTube channel Like Tesla, a Tesla insider hinted at a major refresh of Model S/Model X coming.

This and previous rumors/unofficial reports (CNBC) lists a whole bunch of possible upgrades of the next-generation S/X:

• three-motor powertrain (1 in the front and two in the rear)
• new battery pack (possibly with new 2170 cylindrical cells) and more capable cooling ("currently being tested under extreme heat")
• more range of up to around/over 400 miles (644 km) in case of Model S and close to 400 miles in case of Model X (EPA)
• capability to charge at full power from V3 Superchargers (250 kW)
• refreshed exterior and interior, following minimalist Model 3 design
• production form September
• production of Model S/X on a single line, instead two separate to make space for Model Y

See also

Fremont Factory Being Prepped For Tesla Model Y Production, Model S Refresh

For us, the Tesla Model S and Model X are really the state-of-the-art EVs and, after the most recent refresh, their leading position strengthened. Having more upgrades would be kind of overkill in terms of competitive advantages, but who knows - maybe the changes on the production lines forced by the addition of Model Y are a good opportunity to make a bigger refresh to the S/X and a necessity to increase sales to peak levels/or at least higher margins.

In terms of rumored changes, we guess that all are reasonable, maybe besides the three-motor concept. Two rear motors would open a way for more power, torque vectoring and in general better performances in top of the line versions, although it brings additional cost and complexity.

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The biggest issue with Tesla rumors could be the Osborne effect that could prompt customers to wait for the rumored car and collapse current sales.

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Source: Teslarati

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