Not tying these buttons to a single purpose allows Tesla to utilize them much like the scroll wheels in the Model S, which could be used to fine-tune the position of the sunroof, adjust the temperature, etc. A video posted by “The Tesla Show” from the Model 3 test drive reveals what they do and how they work, and I have to say, I’m impressed. The design shifts away from single-purpose buttons to new multi-directional scroll knobs that were a bit of a mystery when first spotted. One early curiosity with Model 3 was related to the new steering wheel controls. Though, it does feel a bit strange to many new owners to pull out a smartphone to manage their cars. Tesla has built this very same functionality and more into the Tesla app, so owners retain all of that functionality in some way. On the other hand, the fob brought extra functionality with it, like locking/unlocking the vehicle, opening/closing the trunk, and popping the frunk. Even Tesla’s key fobs are bulky and clutter up pockets, requiring yet one more thing to be carried around. Keeping the card in one’s wallet allows for the keychain to be slimmed down. The move is controversial, as many claim to prefer the key fob to a keycard, but the benefits are also rather impressive.

If you haven't seen it, no more digging around for keys – keep #Tesla Model 3 card in wallet. That news has been confirmed, as longtime Tesla evangelist Bonnie Norman has confirmed via Twitter that Model 3 will indeed utilize a keycard. Rumors were running rampant that the Model 3 would use a keycard for entry instead of its iconic mini-Tesla key fob. Now that the first Model 3s are out in the wild and it has officially been shared with the world media, the floodgates of fun details have opened up.

Tesla keycard