Tesla’s minimalist approach of removing traditional stalks has sparked debate since the Model 3 Highland launch. Now, in a surprising reversal, Tesla China is bringing the stalk back — standard on new vehicles and as a retrofit for recent owners.
On August 19, 2025, Tesla confirmed that all Model 3 Highland vehicles produced in China after this date will once again include a physical turn signal stalk as standard equipment.
For cars built between February 7 and August 18, 2025, Tesla also introduced a retrofit program priced around $350. This gives recent Chinese owners the chance to restore a control style many drivers consider more natural and safer.
At present, this update is exclusive to the Chinese market. Tesla has not announced whether the change will extend to the US, Europe, or other regions.
Why the Stalk Is Returning
Tesla’s decision highlights an important shift in design philosophy. Since removing stalks in favor of haptic buttons, feedback from owners has been mixed:
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Muscle memory — quick lane changes feel more intuitive with stalks.
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Safety factor — less time glancing at the screen, more focus on the road.
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Driving comfort — tactile feedback feels natural in daily driving.
By reintroducing stalks in China, Tesla appears to be acknowledging the strong demand for physical, driver-friendly controls.
What About Drivers Outside China?
For now, official retrofits are not available outside China, leaving many global owners without a direct solution.
This is where the aftermarket has already stepped in. For example:
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Tesla Model 3 Highland Turn Signal &Gear Shift Lever Kit
→ Restores both turn signal stalk and gear shift stalk, delivering the OEM-style driving feel for international Model 3 owners. -
Model Y Juniper & Model 3 Highland Smart Gear Shift LCD Upgrade
→ Adds a gear shift stalk with integrated LCD display, improving visibility and ergonomics.
These solutions show how owners worldwide are already shaping their own driving experience, even before Tesla expands its official program.
The Bigger Trend: Customization Returns
Tesla has long been known for pushing minimalism, but this change suggests a more flexible future. With stalks returning in China and aftermarket solutions available globally, driver preference is once again influencing Tesla’s design direction.
Whether or not the retrofit expands to other regions, the conversation around usability, safety, and comfort is far from over.
