The new, Model Y-like frunk of Tesla Model 3 could mean more range

It appears that Tesla is quietly preparing for a major improvement over the Model 3, hiding under a subtly redesigned wife, as the first trick.

Photos posted to a Canadian Tesla fan page of a newly delivered Model 3 show a redesigned frunk area. Not only is the frunk redesigned, but it matches the Model Y’s. And what is one notable feature the Model Y includes and the Model 3 so far not? A heat pump.

That has led the owner to speculate that the change comes in preparation for a heat pump installed to mimic the Model Y design. In fact, the two electric cars share a platform, so the change would probably not be too drastic. It is likely that Tesla is preparing to roll out the option, but sent the engineering and design already into production. Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The change also reveals a narrower franc, although it is now deeper. Again, the reduced width suggests that Tesla needed space for something else. Like a heat pump.

Why is a heat pump such a big deal? Now, it mainly helps in creating a more efficient EV. Instead of the battery using its energy to generate heat for the climate control system, a heat pump can simply take heat as a by-product of other parts of the car and send it to the HVAC system. It is especially handy for those who drive EVs in cold weather. Range often suffers because the car’s battery works to supply energy for various things.

We keep an eye out for any official announcement, but it seems very clear that the Model 3 is for an upgrade of a heat pump.