The Tesla Model X appears to have received a subtle, but meaningful update, in the form of a new headlight unit. The new design shouldn’t change the look of the SUV too much but will help the automaker save some money thanks to new lighting elements intended to satisfy regulations in all global markets.
Photos of the new headlights were taken by a Twitter user in Toronto, Canada, suggesting that they are now in production at Tesla’s Fremont, California, plant. While the DRLs don’t appear to have changed significantly, the new lights now have two apparent bulbs in the middle.
According to an internal document found by Drive Tesla Canada, these are “global headlamps” that will allow the automaker to use just one set of lights for all markets.
Read: Rumors Suggest That “Project Highland” Model 3 Is The Biggest Update In Tesla’s History
Thanks to the new lighting elements, Tesla will be able to control the beam with software, allowing it to customize the same unit for multiple markets’ regulations. While the automaker has never referred to these as Matrix LED headlights, it appears that this is the technology being used.
If that is the case, drivers may soon be able to benefit from the improved functionality, too. As implemented by other luxury brands, the technology can be used to keep high beams on while an oncoming vehicle approaches, dimming only the area that the opposing vehicle occupies in order not to dazzle its driver.
Rumors suggest that the updated Model 3, and of course the Model S, will also offer this headlight feature, and updates may be available to unlock the feature on vehicles whose hardware can accommodate it.