Tesla Model 3 is finally getting a key fob – first images

As we reported last month, Tesla applied for a new key fob with the FCC and we suspected that it would be for Model 3.

Now the FCC has released pictures of the new key fob and it is indeed for Model 3.

With the Model S and Model X, Tesla’s iPhone and Android app can already be used to unlock and start the vehicles, but the key fob is generally regarded as the main device to get in those cars since you have to open the app to unlock a vehicle.

For the Model 3, owners have to walk up to the car with their phone in their pocket to unlock the car – like a Model S and Model X with a key fob and passive entry.

They also have the option to use the keycard to open and start the Model 3, but it is not ideal.

Some owners have been complaining of occasional issues of using the app, which relies on their phone’s Bluetooth connection.

When Tesla applied for a new key fob using a BLE frequency with the FCC, we speculated that Tesla was introducing the device for Model 3.

The documents were confidential until today and now we can confirm that the key fob is for Model 3:

As you can see, it looks almost exactly like the Model S and Model X key fobs.

Based on the user manual, it looks like the key fob is going to be offered as a third entry option for Model 3 owners.

Tesla wrote in the user manual:

“This Key fob is used for user that don’t want to use phone nor NFC card to unlock their car. It contains three bottoms that able to unlock the frunk, door and trunk.”

We contacted Tesla to get details about the plan to release the new device. We will update if we get an answer.

What option do you prefer?

Here’s the updated Model 3 key and entry user manual:

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