It has often been peculiar that Tesla's high-performance vehicles appear almost indistinguishable from their standard counterparts. Unlike specialized versions from brands like AMG, Audi RS, and BMW M, or even newer electric speedsters like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, Tesla's performance models don't overtly display their capabilities via aggressive exterior designs or interior features.
However, a photo inadvertently shared on Reddit suggests Tesla may be altering this approach. The image captures just the top half of what appears to be a new, more performance-oriented Tesla seat. The design includes expanded shoulder supports and a blend of materials, featuring perforated leather on most surfaces and a textured microfiber on the side bolsters for additional grip.
digging in some more, random findings.
— green (@greentheonly) October 26, 2023
The refreshed model3 will come in 2 flavors: Base and Sport.
The Sport version will have different front seats with bolstered side support and hdrst.
The refreshed 3 will have different rear bench seat, e.g. middle seat will have a headrest pic.twitter.com/StRZGqdeNw
Also visible is what appears to be a Plaid insignia beneath the built-in headrest, indicating that these seats may be intended for Tesla's most potent Model S. There's speculation that similar seats might also be featured in upcoming high-speed iterations of the Model 3 and Model Y. A Tesla enthusiast known as Green discovered, while exploring Tesla's software code, that the Model 3 would soon have both Base and Sport variants, with the Sport version having seats resembling those in the leaked photo.
Additionally, according to the Not A Tesla App website, another Tesla aficionado, The Kilowatts, stumbled upon a Tesla parts list that disclosed the existence of a new performance-centric Model 3. This new variant aims to serve a similar role to the Plaid versions of the Model S and X. However, unlike the Plaid models that use a tri-motor setup, this new Model 3 is expected to continue with an upgraded dual-motor configuration and could potentially be dubbed 'Ludicrous' instead of 'Plaid'.
Tesla’s Parts Catalog confirms Tesla is working on a Performance version of the new Model 3, potentially PLAID!! pic.twitter.com/N7qxt0LUqM
— The Kilowatts (@klwtts) October 19, 2023
Tesla has used the name 'Ludicrous' in the past to describe its most aggressive driving mode. Both 'Ludicrous' and 'Plaid' names are borrowed from the 1980s sci-fi comedy film, Spaceballs. The Kilowatts report that the Tesla parts list also indicates that this new high-performance Model 3 will feature enhanced brakes, wheels, and suspension systems.
Sources: Reddit, Not A Tesla App, Teslerati
