Tesla has been forced to suspend Model 3 Highland deliveries in Australia due to technical non-compliance with Australian regulations.
According to information, Australian authorities were investigating the new Model 3 after it was discovered Tesla had removed access to a child-seat anchor point in the facelifted EV that is needed for it to comply with Australian Design Rules (ADR). The regulations require all five-seat passenger vehicles with three seatbelts in the rear to include a top-tether point for securing child seats in all three seating positions.
Related: EV Sales in Australia Increased by 185% Since 2022
The center rear seat of the previous Model 3 had a top-tether point that was accessible through a flap on the parcel shelf; the current model does not have this feature. Although the 2024 Model 3 seems to have been built with a top-tether point, one can only access it by removing the headrests on the backseat.
Tesla Australia while confirming the halt in deliveries, addressed its customers via social media by saying:
“We regret to inform you that deliveries of Model 3 in Australia will be paused from close of business on 17 January 2024. This pause is related to a technical compliance matter that we are working closely with the relevant authorities to resolve. We understand that these changes may lead to a delay in the delivery and want to assure you that resolving this matter is our top priority. We expect to recommence deliveries within the coming weeks. Our team will be in touch to provide further updates on your delivery as soon as possible. We sincerely apologize for this inconvenience.”
It remains unclear if Tesla will issue a recall of the 2024 Model 3 Highland that it has delivered across Australia. The automaker might have to update the design of the rear parcel shelf to add access to the top tether point back in.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
