‘Tesla limits features cheapest version Model 3 via software’

Tesla has started selling Model 3s in the cheapest Standard Range version with features limited in the software. For example, the range is lower, the seat heating does not work and the car manufacturer has disabled Autopilot.

The hardware of the cheapest Model 3 variant is the same as the more expensive Standard Range + version, claims Electrek. That was not the plan at first, but Tesla had already announced that the difference would only be in software. That happened last month, when the Model 3 had been on sale for some time.

Until now, owners of the Standard Range got all the features of the Standard Range+, but that seems to have come to an end. In the US, according to the auto site, a first owner of the cheapest version of the Model 3 with modified software. As a result, the range is software limited to 320 kilometers, while some functions do not function. People who previously bought the Standard Range still have those features and they can also drive more miles on a single charge.

It is unknown why Tesla is now starting to offer the software that limits the functions. It may want early owners to get used to features like Autopilot and heated seats first, then charge for the upgrade. It could also be that the automaker didn’t have the software ready yet and first focused on finishing the software for the Standard Range+, which the automaker says sold six times more than the cheapest model.

Tesla had previously announced that owners of a Standard Range can upgrade to the + version through a software upgrade. Then they will have access to the higher range, Autopilot and other functions that are now limited. Tesla has often limited the range of cars in the software.