What tablet? Tesla's new touchscreen is (almost) as big as a TV

The Tesla Model S and Model X have been on the market for years now. Sure, the two models received technology and powertrain upgrades over the years. However, the interior and exterior of both EVs have remained relatively unchanged. For 2021, however, Tesla is changing things up for both models.

Tesla recently revealed images of the refreshed Tesla Model S and Model X. The exterior changes can best be described as a modest upgrade. There's a new sleeker hood paired with a more aggressive-looking bumper and new wheels. Overall, the makeover gives the Model S a sportier look compared to before.

It's the same story with the Model X. Most of the changes can be found in the lower half of the EV crossover, lending to a more aggressive design. Meanwhile, the rear appears carried over from the outgoing model.

While the exterior changes on the Model S and Model X are subtle, the changes inside the cabin are night and day. The 17-inch vertical touchscreen is gone, and in its place is an even larger horizontal display. Tesla did not say the size of the new screen, but it's one of the biggest out there. The other difference is the steering wheel. Tesla seems to have chopped off the top half giving it a yolk-style design. Touch-sensitive buttons appear to have been added to the steering wheel as well. Though less obvious, the turn signals and gear selector stalks are also removed.

Another nice upgrade in the cabin is the new tiny screen on the center console for rear passengers. At the moment, it's unclear what its function is. It will likely allow rear passengers to play games and possibly watch videos separately from the front infotainment system while the vehicle is moving.

Apart from the visual changes, Tesla says the powertrain, battery pack, battery module, and drive units get upgrades. The Long Range version of the Model S will be available by March (U.S Market) with a target range of 663 km (412 miles). Then there's the Plaid+ variant expected to arrive in late 2021. Tesla claims Plaid+ models can sprint from 0 to 97 km/h in just 1.99 seconds and do the quarter-mile (400 meters) under 9.0 seconds by packing over 1,100 horsepower and three electric motors.

The 2021 Model S and Model X have pretty exciting specifications. With a larger display inside and a variant with over 1,000 horsepower, we'd love to see what these high-performance EVs can do. Now, if only these cars are officially available in the Philippines...