Skip to main content

Tesla Model S and Model X to ‘soon’ work with keyless and smartphone entry – like Model 3

Tesla Model S and Model X can be unlocked and started without the key fob using just a smartphone, but it’s not on par with the keyless entry system that Tesla included in the Model 3.

Now, CEO Elon Musk says that the same feature is coming to the automaker’s flagship premium sedan and SUV.

The Model 3 doesn’t come with a key fob.

Instead, Tesla made a keycard that can unlock the Model 3 by placing it near a sensor on the B pillar.

But that’s not the primary way that Model 3 owners use to enter and start their vehicles.

Tesla instead built the experience around its mobile app, which can be linked to a vehicle to activate ‘keyless entry’.

With the feature, owners can simply walk up to their Model 3 and the vehicle detects the phone approaching and unlocks itself.

Tesla Model 3: how the keyless and phone entry works and user manual

In Model S and Model X vehicles, owners have the same experience if they have the key fob on them, but if they want to use their phone, they have to open up the mobile app and click on unlocking and starting the vehicle from the app.

The feature was originally built around remotely giving someone access to the vehicle via the app more than using it as a primary key.

But now Musk says that Model S and Model X owners will have the same features as the Model 3:

Musk has been talking about releasing a lot of new features lately, like a dashcam feature using its Autopilot cameras and a feature to alert family members of a Tesla owner’s arrival when selecting “home” as a destination in the navigation system.

But as we reported earlier this week, it looks like new features are dependent on Tesla completing the Model 3 software, which has been the focus for the past 6 months.

Tesla released another Model 3 software update with new features this week and it brings it a lot closer to completion.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Stay up to date with the latest content by subscribing to Electrek on Google News. You’re reading Electrek— experts who break news about Tesla, electric vehicles, and green energy, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow Electrek on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our YouTube channel for the latest reviews.

Comments

Author

Avatar for Fred Lambert Fred Lambert

Fred is the Editor in Chief and Main Writer at Electrek.

You can send tips on Twitter (DMs open) or via email: fred@9to5mac.com

Through Zalkon.com, you can check out Fred’s portfolio and get monthly green stock investment ideas.