US Models: Will They Get Life-Saving Feature?

Not long ago, the updated Tesla Model 3 was unveiled complete with numerous updates like a streamlined look, enhanced interior, and a light-weight frame. But perhaps the most attention-grabbing development is its increased safety features; included in this is an active hood created to minimize the harm from pedestrian-related mishaps. This can be found specified in the owner manual of the European edition of the electric sedan.

The front of the bumper is fitted with multiple sensors, all of which are capable of detecting collisions involving pedestrians that occur between 18.6 and 32.3 mph. In the unfortunate event of an incident, the back part of the hood is programmed to rise by 3.15 inches. This act raises the platform, shrinking the amount of distance a pedestrian would fall before impacting the vehicle.

Given its reliance on algorithms and sensors, Tesla states that not every pedesterian collision will result in the hood being deployed. Despite this, it still remains vigilant to offer protection as needed.

The Model 3 Highland features a wealth of active and passive enhancements in terms of safety and comfort: 1. Dual force dampers in the trunk; 2. Metallic latches for the doors to keep them properly aligned in the event of an accident; 3. An extendable bonnet for enhanced pedestrian safety during collisions. Well done @teslaeurope! pic.twitter.com/hU6eTE8IN6

This advancement in tech is nothing novel; as far back as 2005, Jaguar had included the functionality in the XK (X150). Volvo then introduced an airbag for pedestrians on the V40 in 2012. The active hood technology has been available in select areas for the Models S and X, but this is the very first time it’s accessible for their smaller vehicle, the Model 3.

It will definitely be intriguing to find out if the forthcoming Model 3 in America is equipped with this particular characteristic, as the current US-spec variant does not possess it, based on the manual that accompanies it. It’s not the only advancement the ‘Highland’ has picked up through this massive revamp.

Shared just recently on X by @tesla_Adri, news was released that electric vehicles may gain from metal door hooks, double-powered dampeners for the boot, and a central airbag located between the driver and front seat passenger.

Tesla has advanced assertions of grown range and lessened weight. According to the WLTP cycle, Tesla states that the Model 3 Long Range AWD will go a maximum of 391 miles on one charge, augmented from 374 miles initially. That’s an enviable rise, and US-spec variants will too gain an increase in range.

Down the line, car aficionados can look forward with enthusiasm to the advent of a Performance version. Anticipated to come with a modern electric motor, sporting “Ludicrous” branding and sumptuous sporty front seating, it is sure to befit its lofty status.

It should be intriguing to observe if the American-description Model 3 is outfitted with the dynamic hood system. We surely wish so, since pedestrian accidents are too common (and dangerous) within the United States.

Availability of Model S & X Expanded to Multiple Markets

The newly revised Tesla Model 3, nicknamed the “Highland” due to its internal title, comes with a impressive section of enhancements compared to the prior model. Said upgrades include an augmented higher-end cabin, a more tranquil ride and a modestly adjusted external look.

It currently appears that the recent EV iteration will be equipped with a few novel passive safety elements, such as the ‘Active Hood’ that serves to lessen possible consequences in pedestrian head collisions.

Noted initially by Tesla fan @tesla_adri on X (through Teslarati) who attained delivery of his personal Model 3 “Highland” only a couple of days in the past, it would appear that the enhanced safety feature could be seen inside the European user handbook for your redefined Electric Vehicle.

The paperwork indicates that the rear section of the hood lifts automatically by approximately 80 millimeters (3.1 inches) should the motor vehicle detect that it has been in a collision with a pedestrian when travelling at speeds within the range of 30 to 52 kilometers per hour (18.6–32.3 miles per hour). This serves to create a kind of metal buffer for the victim’s head, thus reducing the chances of major harm or trauma.

The handbook states that if the “Active Hood” has been triggered, the touch-screen will present a caution, with an accompanying audible chime. In the event of this occurrence, the automobile must be routed to the nearby Tesla Service Center or a Tesla authorized body shop to have the hood reset.

Previously, the passive safety feature had only been accessible on Tesla’s Model S and Model X in chosen markets. However, this up-to-date update looks to be providing all new Model 3s with said services, no matter where in Europe they may end up.

Yet, the latest-generation “Active Hood” is not the only partly-concealed security feature to be included in the refreshed electric sedan. Tesla_Adri, ended up exploring this on his car. In addition to the self-raising hood, the revised Model 3 has metal hooks towards the lower end of the doors that offer an extra layer of protection during a mishap.

Passive protetction is facilitated by the implementation of an innovation termed “Driver Fatigue Alarm”. This device utilizes a camera situated above the rearview mirror to keep records of driver’s yawning and blinking, then, delivers a notification in the central touchscreen followed by a audible sound.

The recently revised Model 3 is yet to hit the US market, but we anticipate that it soon will, based on the obvious testing of unprotected car types seen around California. When orders start to ship in North America, it’s likely that we’ll get the exact same amenities as those present in the European models; featuring a “Active Hood” capacity.