R1 refresh prototypes spotted with new hardware?

[vandy1981]

A photo of some wrapped R1's taken near Fairbanks, AK, was posted on Reddit. I'm guessing that they're testing new motors, batteries or thermal management features. There are at least a few changes that are evident on the exterior. The windshield ADAS cluster has an extra cutout and there's a ridge poking out of the side mirrors. Maybe this is a clue that hardware upgrades to Driver+ are imminent? Does anyone notice any other differences?

Current R1T for reference:

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[NineElectrics]

Heat pump, please!

 

[MountainBikeDude]

Given the temps, i'd assume they are testing heat pumps, and other refreshed internal components.

 

[ImAI]

wow, i would like the name of this wrapping service. looks drop-dead gorgeous

 

[Killer95Stang]

My neighbor sent me this small clip from the testing this past week. Besides that, he didn't elaborate beyond how cold he was.

 

[Killer95Stang]

Given the temps, i'd assume they are testing heat pumps, and other refreshed internal components.

Could be the R2 drive system... my neighbor hasn't seen an R2 clay model, those are locked down tight, but he did say some of the R2 test mules are actually R1's with a R2 driveline. I'm just guessing, but maybe that is what we are seeing in AK right now.

 

[AYAYRON]

The extra spot on the windshield could be a 3rd party dash cam, or display module for the testing

 

[COdogman]

I hope they are testing the rumored burrito warming drawer that will replace the camp speaker.

 

[UnsungZero_OldTimeAdMan]

Could also be cold climate testing on LFP standard pack.

I hope they are testing the rumored burrito warming drawer that will replace the camp speaker.

A small microwave oven would be much more useful than the camp speaker. You think they'd also offer anti-radiation undies in the Gear Shop?

 

[COdogman]

A small microwave oven would be much more useful than the camp speaker. You think they'd also offer anti-radiation undies in the Gear Shop?

I can see the text of the class action lawsuit already

 

[carsly]

Maybe it's the mythical 1,200+HP quad Enduro with 180kwh battery, heat pump and...Apple Carplay!

 

[kylealden]

Definitely looks like housing for a much improved camera suite, at least - I personally care more about that improving the display quality than Driver+, but I'll take what I can get ?

My guess is they're shifting the side rear cameras from the fender to the mirror, which should help a lot with both the angle and room for better optics. Curious if they'll still keep the 180 fisheye at the bottom of the mirror.

I agree with speculation that this is refresh testing, hoping we get a preview at the R2 event.

 

[Oldsmobile_Mike]

They need to make that wrap available to the public. Am sure a few people would buy it. Almost reminds me of these artist-wrapped computers that were released back in the '80s. And people bought those, haha. ?

 

[MountainBikeDude]

Could be the R2 drive system... neighbor hasn't seen an R2 clay model, those are locked down tight, but didmsay some if the R2 test mules are actually R1's with R2 driveline. I'm just guessing, but maybe that is what we are seeing in AK right now.

Good call. Technically hiding in plain sight.

 

[evhelphub]

Heat pump and other thermal management makes sense. Could indicate BMS testing for a new pack design.

Either way, exciting to see, as a heat pump is certainly one of the biggest holes in the current offering, along with 800v.

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