Tesla is updating the Model 3, giving the electric vehicle a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function and a slightly larger touchscreen. The new features will be introduced for new vehicles in select international markets starting in the fourth quarter of 2026, though an official launch date for Germany has yet to be announced.
Mobile Power Plant Delivering up to 2.2 Kilowatts
With the V2L feature, the US manufacturer is catching up to rivals. Using a dedicated adapter at the charging port, the Model 3’s traction battery can power external electrical devices with a total output of up to 2.2 kilowatts. This allows drivers to run or recharge camping gear, power tools, or e-bikes on the go.
However, there is a catch for current Model 3 owners: the feature requires modified hardware components. Based on current information, retrofitting older vehicles via a software update is not possible.
Larger Touchscreen and Visual Tweaks
In the minimalist interior, Tesla is replacing the previous 15.4-inch monitor with a 16-inch screen that is also said to offer higher pixel density. Since almost all vehicle functions are controlled via the central display, this upgrade will be immediately noticeable in everyday use.
Depending on the market, the refresh also includes a black headliner, a new interior color called “Zen Grey,” and new 19-inch alloy wheels in the “Dark Nova” design.
Situation for Buyers in Germany
While rivals such as the Hyundai IONIQ 5 or Kia EV6 have supported V2L out of the factory in Germany for some time, local buyers will have to wait for now. Deliveries featuring the upgrades will launch first in China, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.
Although the Model 3 vehicles sold in Germany are manufactured at Tesla’s Gigafactory Shanghai—where the updated models for China are also produced—a European rollout has not yet been officially confirmed.
Advice for Prospective Buyers
Those who rely on V2L to power electrical devices directly from their vehicle should keep a close eye on the German configurator before placing an order. As long as the new equipment features are not explicitly listed there, buyers will continue to receive the current version without power export capabilities and with the 15.4-inch display.
Sources: Netztwelt.de
