Tesla has announced a round of configuration upgrades for the Model 3 on sale in China, headlined by a larger 16-inch high-definition touchscreen and a new AC external power supply feature that is also being added across the Model Y range, according to Chinese outlet D1EV.
New screen and interior option
The 16-inch touchscreen, which replaces the previous unit, offers higher resolution and a higher refresh rate, covering navigation, video and gaming use cases. Tesla says the upgrade applies to all current Model 3 variants. The company is also introducing an optional light grey premium interior with a black fabric headliner, which it says gives a more upmarket feel.
Vehicle-to-load for Model 3 and Model Y
Tesla is adding an AC external power supply function to all current Model 3 and Model Y models, with output of up to 2,200W. The company says that is enough to run a 600W portable rice cooker, a 1kW electric hotpot and a 600W portable kettle at the same time. The feature requires a separately purchased Tesla AC external power adapter, except on the Model Y L.
The move reflects a broader trend in China's EV market, where vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability has become a common selling point, especially on domestic models. Tesla's adoption brings the feature to a wider audience, though buyers will need to factor in the cost of the adapter.
Pricing and promotion
Tesla China is also running a limited-time promotion. Orders placed on or before October 31, 2026 qualify for a 5,000 yuan (about $700) discount on the final payment for all Model 3 variants, and a 7,000 yuan (about $986) discount on selected Model Y variants. Combined with a five-year zero-interest financing offer, the Model 3 starts at 222,500 yuan (about $31,300) and the Model Y at 256,500 yuan (about $36,100). These are Chinese guide prices before taxes and incentives.
The upgrade comes as Tesla faces intensifying competition in China from domestic EV makers such as BYD, Xpeng and Xiaomi, which have been adding features like larger screens, advanced driver assistance and V2L to attract buyers. Tesla's latest move appears aimed at keeping the Model 3 and Model Y competitive on features as well as price.
D1EV noted that the information was originally reported by Kuaikeji, a Chinese tech news outlet, and that the images in the article were sourced from the internet.
