The Model 3 headliner is making headlines.
When Tesla’s electric sedan for the masses went on sale it offered a $5,000 “Premium Upgrades Package” that promised “Premium Materials.” Interior photos released by Tesla show a Model 3 interior wrapped in what appears to be Alcantara, a durable material with the look and feel of suede. And, there’s definitely a batch of early Model 3s that include the suede-like material.
But, it seems, Model 3s ordered with the premium package are now shipping with a cloth material for the headliner and interior trim.
Tesla said in a statement: “As we continue to increase production of Model 3 and produce more high quality cars for customers, all Model 3 vehicles are being made with the same premium textile headliner found in our flagship Model S and Model X vehicles, which has always been planned at this stage of production.”
It’s worth noting that Tesla never formally announced a plan to use Alcantara.
Still, many reservation holders are disappointed in the change of materials.
Below is some reaction from TMC members:
voip-ninja: “Tesla better correct it. Basic cloth is not acceptable in a $5,000 upgrade package when better materials are being specified.”
Zaphod: “It is always odd when Tesla does this “roulette wheel” switching back and forth on headliners and also the dashboard trim on the S dash. It’s an option, it’s standard, it’s no longer available, it’s back again standard, etc, etc… Not sure if there are hiccups in their supply chain or what, but is somewhat annoying especially on something as random as headliner material. Never know what you are going to get.”
SpaceCarFan: “So what exactly is base on a $35k car in your opinion? Paper wrappers? Maybe a burlap sack This textile looks to be pretty average and I’m sure nobody has a problem with it in the regular interior. The problem is Tesla’s behavior: downgrading the premium interior after setting expectations and then being dishonest about it.”
Ocelot: “Well the change is no big deal, the fact that Tesla continues to not communicate effectively to the consumer is a huge deal. If a delivery person informed me of the change…i would think no biggie, if it shows up changed, you feel you were taking advantage of. You cannot picture one thing on your website and sell another. The fact that no one in the chain of command would have the thought to change the website and overtly communicate with those people who had it on order is just signs of a chaotically run company. With all the problems in the ramp, it comes as no surprise there is chaos. However, you must look after the customer. THAT is first principles!”
Many Tesla owners have praised the cloth interior in the Model S and Model X as nice-looking and easy to clean, but the issue at hand seems to be Model 3 owners feeling Tesla didn’t deliver on owners’ expectations.