Additionally, a highly anticipated seven-seater and more affordable models are expected.
- Tesla intends to release the Performance and seven-seat versions of its most popular Model Y model sometime this year.
- The automaker remains tight-lipped about what to expect, but the launch of the Model 3 Performance suggests what might change between trims.
- Only the Long Range Dual Motor version of the updated Model Y is available to buy today, but we anticipate lower prices for the rear-wheel drive and standard Dual Motor trims will be available soon.
Tesla's updated Model Y will begin being delivered to customers next month. Many people are waiting for two highly anticipated versions – the Performance and seven-seater models – which Tesla has not made available for purchase yet. Don't worry, though, because Tesla executives have confirmed that both options are scheduled to be released later this year.
Earlier this week, the topic of discussion was the updated version of Tesla's top-selling vehicle, the Model Y.
We're starting with the launch edition, and then the other variants will follow," said Moravy. "The Dual Motor base edition, Rear-Wheel Drive, Performance, and seven-seater options will be introduced later this year.
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How much power will the Performance version have? Tesla has kept details about that under wraps. It's worth noting that the Dual Motor variant is no slacker, especially with its impressive torque right off the starting line. However, note how Moravy mentioned both a "base" and "launch" edition of the Dual Motor.
According to the executive, the base Dual Motor car produces 410 horsepower, while the refreshed Model Y Launch Edition, currently being offered at a premium due to its additional features, has a slightly higher output of 455 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. This enables the Dual Motor Launch Edition to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in 4.1 seconds—a time that is approximately 0.5 seconds slower than the previous Model Y Performance. The Performance model should be significantly faster, so it is expected to have a substantial power increase.
Now, let's address the issue that's been on everyone's mind: the cost.
The new model is more advanced than the previous Model Y Performance, which comes with additional features like Tesla's Full Self-Driving software, wheel options, a horsepower increase, and other upgrades. Meanwhile, Tesla has started switching all its manufacturing facilities to the new production line, with the first deliveries of the updated Model Y expected to begin in March.
The good news is that as the Launch Edition is phased out, people can expect the Model Y to become slightly more affordable. Pricing is expected to start at around $46,990 for the base Dual Motor Model Y, according to the two executives, which means that the RWD car will likely be even more affordable. Currently, the outgoing Dual Motor and RWD models are priced at $47,990 and $44,990, respectively, in the U.S.
In China, the updated vehicles are priced even lower. The Rear-Wheel Drive variant costs approximately $36,000 (263,500 CNY), while the Long Range Dual Motor is priced at around $41,500 (303,500 CNY). Notably, Tesla's locally-assembled vehicle prices in China have traditionally been lower than in the United States.
While also reducing its inventory of existing non-refreshed stock.
Tesla has a lot to do in order to maintain its top position. Of course, the Model Y Performance is a good starting point for those seeking a fast electric vehicle. However, it remains to be seen whether these new upgrades will be sufficient to sustain Model Y sales growth. We will have to wait until later this year to determine this.
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