Tesla recently launched its Bioweapon Defense Mode for the Model Y crossover SUV in the United States. The feature was previously exclusive to the Model Y in China, and the flagship Model S and Model X.
Many existing Tesla Model Y customers have been wondering about a HEPA filter retrofit, and according to well-connected Tesla insider, Sawyer Merritt, it’s finally coming soon.
“A source of mine has told me that Tesla will offer HEPA filter retrofits for Model Y’s that don’t have the new filter but the retrofits aren’t available yet,” said Merritt on Tuesday. “The system will be sold online on the Tesla shop as well as in the App. Retrofits will require service appointments,” he added.
A source of mine has told me that Tesla will offer HEPA filter retrofits for Model Y's that don't have the new filter but the retrofits aren't available yet. The system will be sold online on the Tesla shop as well as in the App. Retrofits will require service appointments.
— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) July 13, 2021
Merritt says “Tesla will provide an exact timeline for retrofits at a later date,” and also indicated so far we won’t be seeing a HEPA filter for the Model 3 “at this time”, saying it’s unknown if the sedan will ever get HEPA as well.
Model S & X also have an acid gas filter, an alkaline gas filter & a carbon monoxide detector that autoswitches car to recirc mode. We should prob tell people about this more. Filters are giant, so too big to fit in Model 3.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 1, 2018
Tesla Model Y builds in the United States from July 1, 2021, and onwards will have Bioweapon Defense Mode and a HEPA filter, says Merritt.
Bioweapon Defense Mode recirculates air through the vehicle’s HEPA filter, purifying the air inside the car. Tesla says the feature will allow customers to “literally survive a military grade bio attack by sitting in your car.”
