Tesla appears to be quite cautious, or maybe more accurately, realistic, when it comes to estimating the range of its own electric vehicles.
Before the EPA put the base Model Y RWD Long Range through its updated and rigorous range testing, Tesla estimated its least expensive Model Y would have a range of 320 miles on its own.
Now that the EPA has completed testing under its stricter standards, the official range for the Model Y RWD LR is an impressive 337 miles, which is 5.3% more than Tesla's earlier estimate.
Updated Range Makes Model Y More Attractive
Unsurprisingly, Tesla quickly adjusted the Model Y Long Range RWD's official range to reflect this new figure, making this most affordable Model Y not only the cheapest but also the one with the best range of all the versions they offer. It can now be purchased for under $35,000, especially with some inventory discounts.
In Europe, Tesla has been offering a more economical RWD Model Y since spring, boasting an even longer range of 375 miles. However, this figure comes from the local WLTP cycle, which is usually about 10% more lenient than the EPA's standards. The European version of the 375-mile Model Y RWD LR is equipped with 2170 cells, the same as the AWD version sold in the U.S., qualifying it for the entire federal tax credit.
Challenges with Battery Variants
Tesla faced some difficulties with the base Model 3 RWD that used the Chinese LFP battery, which they have since phased out because it turned out to be pricier than the AWD version that is eligible for the full tax credit.
The Model 3 RWD LR, now the cheapest option, has a range of 363 miles, making it the longest range among Tesla's two top-selling models. While the highest range still goes to the base Model S, rated for an astounding 402 miles, it is worth noting that it sells in much lower numbers, starting at $74,990.
Recently, the EPA updated its electric vehicle range testing standards, placing greater importance on highway driving efficiency to better reflect real driving habits in America.
So, even though Tesla had to lower some of its official Model Y range estimates, the fact that the base Model Y RWD is now rated at 337 miles on the new EPA cycle is quite remarkable.
