The 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid is already on sale, packing substantial changes. In time, other configurations of the Model S may download the same revisions. Later, the Tesla Model X could get a similar refresh.
In this story, we discuss the four features that immediately standout on the 2022 Model S Plaid.
Headlamps
The 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid refresh features an updated front-end with new, adaptive matrix LED headlamps, although their shape is no different. The technology of the new headlamps could be coming from suppliers Samsung and Hella. The new headlamps likely use the Samsung PixCell LEDs, which Tesla sources (as reported by etnews.com) from Hella, the same company that developed Audi’s Matrix LED headlights using camera-based technology in 2013.
Charging flap
On the sides, the 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid features a larger charging flap. In the U.S., the new charging flap, a part of the left-side tail lamp in a familiar fashion, hides the same old proprietary Tesla charging port. However, the reason why Tesla increased the size of the Model S’ charging flap is probably to integrate a CCS Combo 2 charging port in Europe and other markets.
Taillight
The rear-end of the 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid refresh is also slightly different from that of the previous model. The hatch lid applique above the license plate area is narrower and doesn’t flow into the tail lamps. Speaking of the lighting, the 2022 Tesla Model S has a tweaked cluster, but features a nearly identical shape. The look of the Model S’ tail lamps, and to a good extent even its headlamps, has remained the same for nearly a decade.
Plaid logo
The 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid has a special badge. Image: instagram.com/klwtts
Lastly, the special Plaid logo featured on the first 25 units of the Plaid variant of the Model S has become a common feature. Instead of the simple chrome-lettered Plaid inscription, Tesla is sticking the initially-exclusive Plaid logo below the right taillamp on all the Model S plaid units with the MY2022 update.
Featured Image Source: Jacob Baltazar/Facebook/Tesla Model S Plaid & Long Range (via Tesla Motors Club)
Keyword: 4 changes we spot on the 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid new model