The Y is built on the same platform as the 3, the company's entry-level sedan. So it's not much of a surprise that it looks like a slightly vertically stretched Model 3.
Tesla revealed its latest vehicle during a live stream late last night. The Model Y is a compact crossover with a top range estimate of 483 km.
The Y is built on the same platform as the 3, the company’s entry-level sedan. So it’s not much of a surprise that it looks like a slightly vertically stretched Model 3.
Telsa CEO Elon Musk said that he expects the Model Y to outsell all of the company’s current cars combined. Given the lower price compared with the Model X and the current hotness in the crossover segment compared with sedans, and that doesn’t seem much of a stretch. It will take some time, for that to happen, though. Tesla’s site lets you build and place an order for a Model Y today, but it says production isn’t expected to start until 2021. US deliveries are set for the fall of 2020.
The Model Y was announced in four versions. A Standard Range model with a price of US $39,000, a range of 370 km, and 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The Long Range model gets that 483 km figure, takes 0.4 seconds off that acceleration time, and adds to the price. There are two all-wheel drive models, the Dual Motor and the Performance. Both get a 451 km range estimate, with the Dual Motor taking 4.8-seconds to 100 and the Performance just 3.5. That top range estimate puts the Model Y ahead of any currently available electric crossover.
The Model Y will offer seating for up to seven, with an interior that looks much the same as the Model 3. A wide and extremely minimal dashboard, with the only information presented through a 15.0-inch touchscreen. Cargo space maxes out at 1,869 L with all the seats folded.
Surprisingly missing from the announcement were any “gee whiz” features. Yes, Tesla’s Autopilot semi-automous drive system will be available. And emergency braking, collision warning, and blind spot monitoring will be standard. But there are no Falcon doors like on the Model X. No bio-weapon defence mode. No amazing new must-haves that Tesla’s famous for.
Which is a pleasant surprise. That, along with no bold production claims, suggests that the automaker may be maturing. Or at least becoming more conventional. Which, after the tumultuous and oft-delayed Model 3 launch, could make for a much smoother rollout this time around.
If you already know you need a Model Y, the order books are now open. You can place yours for $3,200. And unlike the Model 3’s reservation deposit, this one actually says “place order.”
The Model Y will start from $64,000 in Canada for the Long Range model, and go all the way to $100,200 for a loaded Performance.
Keyword: Tesla Launches Model Y Electric Compact Crossover