Tesla does not have the best history when it comes to honoring its delivery promises. However, throughout the wait for the Model 3, CEO Elon Musk has been very clear that the affordable EV would start rolling out by the second half of the year. And it looks as if this might just come true, as a prototype of the vehicle has been spotted on the street.
According to Electrek, the Model 3 was sighted in Los Angeles, near the SpaceX headquarters and Tesla's Design Studio. The company pointed out the prototype looked similar to the original silver one that was unveiled at the announcement event in March 2016. However, the publication also noted that there might be changes that are just not evident in the video was taken of the prototype.
As BGR stated, the sighting of the Model 3 prototype is also a proof that the design of the unit has been finalized. When the unit was first announced almost a year ago, Musk noted that the design was still a work in progress at the time and was subject to change. However, the prototype only proves that the final design is close to being signed off on.
There are several changes that are expected between the March 2016 prototype and the Model 3 that will be released. In particular, a larger trunk opening and an updated interior that will feature a new steering wheel. More prototypes are expected to be sighted on the road in the next few weeks and months.
This is good news for Tesla, as there are over 400,000 people waiting to receive their Model 3 units. Production will reportedly begin in July and as many as 80,000 vehicles will be rolled out by the end of the year. However, this is only if all things go according to plan and the electric vehicle company does not experience any delays.