Tesla has rolled out a polished new welcome animation (also called the intro or entry animation) for the latest Model 3 and Model Y as part of the 2026.26 Summer Update. The feature displays a glowing “TESLA” logo on the centre screen that dynamically matches the colour of your selected ambient lighting.
The animation plays when you enter the vehicle and the system wakes up. You can turn it off if you prefer a more minimal startup experience.
How the New Tesla Welcome Animation Works
When the car powers on, the centre touchscreen shows a clean, modern “TESLA” wordmark in a vibrant color that automatically syncs with whatever ambient light theme you have selected. The color then transitions from the display into the ambient light strip along the dashboard and cabin, creating a seamless visual flow.
On vehicles equipped with a rear passenger display, the same color animation appears simultaneously on the rear screen for a coordinated cabin experience.
This is one of the more refined software touches Tesla has added to its high-volume models, bringing a sense of premium personalization that was previously more common on higher-end vehicles.
Which Models Support the New Animation?
The feature is available on:
- 2024+ Model 3 (Highland refresh)
- Redesigned Model Y (Juniper refresh)
Older pre-refresh Model 3 and Model Y vehicles do not receive this animation. Official release notes list compatibility under “New 3” and “New Y.”
Performance Models Get an Enhanced Version
Performance trims receive a more dramatic startup sequence. Opening the door triggers a full “Ludicrous”-style warp effect with star lines across the display before the main interface loads, giving the entry experience a more energetic feel.
How to Turn the Welcome Animation On or Off
- Go to Controls > Display
- Find the Welcome Animation toggle (under Appearance/Display settings)
- Switch it on or off as preferred
The feature is enabled by default on supported vehicles after they receive the 2026.26 update.
Context: Part of the Larger 2026.26 Summer Update
The welcome animation arrives alongside several other features in the Summer 2026 software drop, including:
- Expanded Grok voice commands
- Preferred Routes and Automatic Navigation improvements
- Karaoke with scoring
- Custom wraps via the mobile app
- Traction Control Modes (including Slippery Surface and Stuck Assist)
- Camera Preview, Set Arrival Energy, and other usability upgrades
The update began rolling out in late July 2026 and continues to expand to more vehicles over the air.
Why It Matters
While not a major functional change, the colour-matched welcome animation is a strong example of Tesla using software to refine the ownership experience. It makes every entry feel more intentional and personal, especially for owners who frequently change their ambient lighting themes. The ability to disable it also keeps the interface flexible for those who prefer a cleaner, faster startup.
Videos of the animation show the glowing logo transitioning smoothly in different colors, including green examples that match the ambient lighting in the demonstrated vehicles.
