Blog TMC Member Offers Tesla Model 3 First Look

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TMC Member Joseph Torbati is now showing off the second Model 3 to land in his Fremont, Calif.-based detailing shop.

In a video posted to YouTube, Torbati gives us a full walk around a red Model 3, showing off its keycard unlocking system, door handles, backseat, trunk and a perspective from the driver’s seat.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHxchT5sSOE” video_title=”1″][vc_column_text]Torbati says the face of the Model 3 has a “Porsche-like feel,” while the rear of the vehicle “looks like it’s meant to hold people.”

“I’m fairly convinced this car was meant to drive people around by itself,” Torbati said.

Torbati said he was a big fan of the view provided by the Model 3’s glass roof, but was not pleased with the finger-print attracting piano-black trim for the center console.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

 

[JoaoD]

Nice!

I can see the rollers on the steering wheel being multifunction. When it's raining you press some button on the screen and for the next x minutes, the right roller controls the wiping speed. Or something. Am I being too optimistic thinking that a company from California will understand how to handle rain at some point?

Are the rollers just up-down, or do they have some left-right function too? Can you also click them down like the roller on a mouse?

That is exactly how it works. It has been shown in a previous video but it may have been removed. There are some videos during the test rides in the Model 3 presentation where you can see the driver show how to adjust the mirrors and steering wheel position using the steering wheel buttons just like you mentioned. And yes, it has left and right function too, to move the mirrors horizontally for example.

 

[JoaoD]

I don't like the fact that you need to take the key card out and touch it some place for the doors to unlock. Even in my lowly Nissan Leaf, I can keep the keys in my pocket and simply open the locks with a press of a button in the handle. Same goes for starting the car. No need to take the keys out of the pocket. It seems in M3 you need to touch the keys in a specific spot for the car to start..

You do not need to take the keycard out, it is a fallback solution. The primary and intended way is to sync your phone with the car and the phone will work like the Model X bluetooth keyfob that unlocks the car when you are in range, or like your Leaf but without the need to press the door handle button.

 

[Electroman]

Thanks JoaoD

 

[dsvick]

I would have like to see the screen functions in more detail.
please explain the card/bluetooth usage

Here is more info on the keycard and phone access: Model 3 Key User Manual

There is also another video out there by the same person that focuses on the screen and some of it's functionality, check out his youtube channel and you'll find it.

 

[dmercado_99]

 

[Candleflame]

In previous video he mentioned that he is 6 ft 3 inches tall, and in this video he mentioned that front seat is adjusted as for him to be comfortable in driving position. I think if you try that with one of the competitors, say BMW 330i, you likely change your opinion on Model 3 roominess.

Im 6 1 and if I sit in front of a 3 series the rear seat passenger is not having a good time.

 

[ohmman]

mod note: moved some personal bickering off to snippiness.

 

[Scott7]

If that were my car I'd be calling him up ASAP to remind him not to close frameless doors by pushing on the glass!

 

[Electroman]

another reason why I hate frameless doors. It is just eye-candy that only exacerbates wind noise.

 

[DGDanforth]

Normally you'll be using the Bluetooth on your phone.

What phone? Not everybody has a smartphone. I am deaf and do not own a smartphone. I am hoping they implement the Tesla App on an iPod Touch.

 

[gregincal]

What phone? Not everybody has a smartphone. I am deaf and do not own a smartphone. I am hoping they implement the Tesla App on an iPod Touch.

I believe the Tesla app runs just fine on an iPod touch. I know I run it without problem on my iPad.