Tag: Model Y

  • Tesla Owners Sue Elon Musk for Refunds Over Vandalism Claims

    Tesla Owners Sue Elon Musk for Refunds Over Vandalism Claims

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vandalism incidents involving Tesla cars have increased since Elon Musk became more politically active, affecting both the U.S. and international markets.

    2. A group of French Tesla owners has filed a lawsuit against the company, citing breaches of a French law that requires manufacturers to ensure peaceful use of their products.

    3. The lawsuit claims that Musk’s political involvement has turned Teslas into political symbols, hindering owners’ enjoyment of their vehicles.

    4. Public perception of Tesla has declined sharply due to Musk’s political activities, leading owners to seek compensation and explore other electric vehicle options.

    5. Tesla’s sales have dropped significantly, especially in Europe, with a reported 60% decrease in countries like France and Germany, despite the release of the refreshed Model Y.


    Vandalism incidents involving Tesla cars and showrooms have sharply increased since CEO Elon Musk became more politically active.

    Many Teslas have been set ablaze, scratched, had their tires damaged, windows broken, or were marked with anti-Elon slogans both in the United States and internationally.

    Lawsuit from French Owners

    After experiencing vandalism, including swastikas and even feces on their cars, a group of French Tesla owners decided to take legal action against the company due to Musk’s political involvement. This could be a significant case for other customers.

    Their lawyer from GKA has submitted a lawsuit claiming breaches of a special French law that requires manufacturers to guarantee a “peaceful use” of their products. GKA argues that while Tesla owners purchased their vehicles for their innovative and eco-friendly features, Musk’s actions have turned them into “strong political symbols,” hindering their enjoyment of the cars.

    Declining Brand Perception

    This year, the public’s view of Tesla has declined drastically because of Musk’s political activities and his brief role at the Department Of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Caught off-guard by the changing perceptions, Tesla owners are now seeking compensation.

    The plaintiffs are asking Tesla to buy back their cars and return any lease payments or cash they have made as they look for other eco-friendly electric vehicle options.

    Court Proceedings

    The lawsuit was filed in the Commercial Court of Paris on June 11th, and the judge must now decide if other Tesla owners wishing to join the case can do so after the lawsuit was made known.

    Despite the introduction of the highly anticipated Model Y refresh, Tesla’s sales have significantly decreased this year. The situation in Europe is especially troubling, as Tesla is the only electric vehicle manufacturer facing a negative brand image and a 60% drop in sales in countries like France and Germany.

    Although the Model Y remains one of the leading electric vehicles, its sales have dropped by 50% compared to the same time last year, even with the recent updates.

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  • Driverless Model Y Filmed on Streets with Tesla Robotaxi Logo

    Driverless Model Y Filmed on Streets with Tesla Robotaxi Logo

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s Robotaxi ride-share service will officially launch on June 22, with the first driverless delivery set for June 28.
    2. The service will start in Austin, Texas, where a driverless Model Y was spotted, showcasing Tesla’s logo on the vehicle.
    3. Texas has lenient regulations for self-driving cars, requiring minimal extra rules compared to standard vehicles.
    4. The Robotaxi fleet will use a new version of Full Self-Driving (FSD) software called “unsupervised FSD,” with future updates planned to enhance performance.
    5. Tesla is training local authorities in Austin on handling self-driving cars and will initially roll out about ten Model Y units in a controlled area, with human operators available for assistance.


    Tesla’s Robotaxi Launch

    Elon Musk announced that Tesla’s Robotaxi ride-share service will officially launch on June 22. Following this event, the first completely driverless delivery of a Model Y from the factory to a customer is set for June 28.

    First Sightings of the Robotaxi

    Before the launch, a driverless Model Y robotaxi was spotted on the streets of Austin for the first time. Tesla has decided to kick off its Robotaxi service in this city, and the logo can be seen on the side of the Model Y in the accompanying video.

    Texas Regulations

    Texas has quite lenient laws regarding self-driving cars, requiring minimal extra regulations compared to those for standard vehicles, such as basic registration and insurance.

    The Model Y can be seen waiting for pedestrians to cross before turning left, notably without a driver inside. Tesla has been testing these robotaxis with an employee in the back seat as a precaution. Musk mentioned that this Model Y operates on a different version of the Full Self-Driving (FSD) software that other Tesla cars use.

    Future Software Updates

    In the future, the FSD version that the Robotaxi fleet will utilize, referred to by Tesla as “unsupervised FSD,” is expected to integrate with the main software that gets updated over the air, allowing all vehicles to join the platform.

    Later this year, Tesla plans to roll out a new version of the FSD that aims to increase parameters by four times while ensuring “super frugal use of memory bandwidth” and only caching what’s necessary.

    Collaboration with Local Authorities

    Tesla has been actively training the police and first responders in Austin on how to handle situations involving its self-driving cars. The company plans to start cautiously, rolling out around ten Model Y units within a geofenced area, similar to Waymo’s operations.

    There will also be human operators available for riders to contact in case any issues arise, resembling Waymo’s approach. The only remaining detail is the pricing for rides with Tesla’s Robotaxi service, which is expected to be revealed on or before the June 22 launch.

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  • Family Model Y 7-Seater Launch Expected Before 2026 Performance Trim

    Family Model Y 7-Seater Launch Expected Before 2026 Performance Trim

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is hinting at the release of the 2026 Model Y, which will feature seven seats.
    2. The new Model Y may be the first seven-seat option in Tesla’s lineup, emphasizing long range and ample space.
    3. Current Model Y orders show only two interior color choices, with a potential 7-seat model suggested in the configuration options.
    4. The Chinese market may receive a 6-seat version with three rows of full-size seats, larger than the existing 5-seat model.
    5. It is unclear if the US 7-seat Model Y will have an extended wheelbase or just two smaller seats in the trunk.


    Tesla has begun sending out emails that hint at the upcoming release of the much-anticipated 2026 Model Y, which will feature seven seats.

    This model is the one that Tesla’s head engineer, Lars Moravy, mentioned would be coming “later this year” during an interview related to the Model Y facelift. He also dropped a hint about a 2026 Model Y Performance version, which has been spotted testing at the famous Nürburgring racetrack.

    Exciting Features to Expect

    The new 7-seat Model Y might be the first one to hit the market from Tesla’s lineup. The promotional email informs potential buyers that the electric SUV is “ready for anything with long range, seating for up to seven and enough room for everyone’s gear.”

    While whether there will be enough space for everyone’s belongings in a Model Y with seven seats can be argued, the fact that Tesla is presenting this option as a certainty is quite revealing.

    Updates on Interior Options

    At the moment, the Model Y order page shows just two choices for interior colors regarding the seats. However, Tesla mentions a “5-seater configuration” beneath them, suggesting a 7-seat model might be on the horizon once again.

    There were whispers that a 2026 Model Y with more than five seats started production at Giga Shanghai back in May, but the Tesla China options configurator hasn’t yet reflected this change.

    Market Variations

    Reports indicate that the Chinese market is expected to receive a 6-seat version of the Model Y with three rows of full-size seats, which will also be larger than the current 5-seat model offered by Tesla.

    It’s still uncertain whether the 7-seat Model Y teased in the emails to US customers will feature an extended wheelbase or simply be similar to the current model but with two smaller seats added in the trunk, as Tesla often does.

    Regardless, it seems that the 7-seat Model Y is nearly ready for its debut, meaning Tesla will soon address all those urgent legroom inquiries.

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  • Tesla Model Y RWD Trim: Zero Due at Signing Financing Deal

    Tesla Model Y RWD Trim: Zero Due at Signing Financing Deal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is offering a 1.99% APR financing rate for the new Long Range RWD Model Y, available until June 30 for eligible buyers.
    2. A down payment of at least 15% is required, but the $7,500 federal tax credit can count towards this, allowing some buyers to purchase with little to no money down.
    3. A 2.99% APR financing option with zero down payment is available for buyers who do not qualify for the tax credit.
    4. The RWD Model Y offers a significant range of 357 miles per charge and is priced lower than the AWD variant, which previously had the 1.99% financing offer.
    5. Tesla’s APR promotions cannot be combined with the $2,000 Model Y Loyalty Incentive, but can be combined with other discounts like referral credits or military discounts.


    After launching a 0% APR for the Cybertruck and Model 3, Tesla is now providing a financing offer for the most affordable Model Y variant, which also boasts the longest range.

    Financing Details

    Eligible buyers of the Model Y can now benefit from a financing rate of 1.99% APR on the basic Long Range RWD model that was recently unveiled, provided they receive their vehicle by June 30. The Model Y has become Tesla’s top-selling car and has just undergone a significant redesign. This financing promotion for the least expensive version looks like a strategic move to boost sales ahead of Elon Musk’s second-quarter earnings report.

    Tax Credit and Down Payment

    Tesla specifies that for the new Model Y RWD APR financing offer to apply, a down payment of at least 15% is required. However, since the $7,500 federal tax credit can be considered as part of this down payment, buyers can effectively purchase the Model Y with essentially no money down. For those who do not meet the tax credit requirements, Tesla provides an alternative. They can secure a 2.99% APR financing option with zero down payment on a Model Y.

    Comparison with AWD Model

    Previously, the 1.99% financing rate was only available for the Model Y AWD, which costs $4,000 more than the RWD variant that provides an impressive range of 357 miles per charge. Note that this AWD financing offer ends on June 16, while the RWD financing offer is valid until the end of June.

    The APR financing options for the Model Y are applicable for all payment terms up to 72 months. This means the lowest monthly payment, with zero down for those eligible for the tax credit, comes out to $603. If a buyer makes a down payment of $3,999, the monthly payment drops to $544.

    Additional Promotions

    However, it’s important to note that Tesla indicates the APR deal cannot be combined with the $2,000 Model Y Loyalty Incentive for upgrades. Yet, other promotions such as referral credits or military discounts can be combined, further reducing the monthly payments for the Model Y.

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  • Tesla’s Driverless Model Y Launching June 12, Roaming Austin Now

    Tesla’s Driverless Model Y Launching June 12, Roaming Austin Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla will launch its first robotaxi service in Austin on June 12, allowing rides in fully autonomous vehicles without drivers.
    2. The new Model Y has completed initial journeys with fully autonomous driving (FSD) activated, but public access starts on June 12.
    3. The robotaxi feature will be available in the Tesla app, with pricing details to be announced at launch, potentially offering lower fares than competitors due to the absence of drivers.
    4. If testing continues to be accident-free, Tesla plans to expand its robotaxi service to more cities later this year.
    5. By 2026, Tesla will allow vehicle owners to rent their cars to the robotaxi fleet, with Tesla taking a commission similar to ride-sharing companies like Uber.


    People in Austin, as well as visitors arriving after June 12, will have the chance to try out the first Tesla robotaxi service, which has been in development for several years. These won’t just be test drives; the vehicles that Tesla will put on the streets will be operating without drivers.

    The Model Y’s First Steps

    Elon Musk has confirmed that the new Model Y has successfully completed its initial journeys with fully autonomous driving (FSD) activated, with a Tesla staff member onboard in Austin. However, the public will have to wait until June 12 to use the Tesla robotaxi ride-share feature.

    Testing the Driverless Experience

    When asked if visitors to Austin could summon and experience a driverless Model Y using unsupervised FSD, Musk answered positively. The robotaxi option will be available in the Tesla app once the service launches, and that’s when the pricing for rides will be revealed.

    It’s still unclear how the pricing of Tesla’s robotaxi services will stack up against competitors like Uber and Lyft. However, since there will be no driver and only around ten Model Y pilot vehicles owned and operated by Tesla, it is likely the fares will be lower.

    Future Expansion Plans

    Musk noted that the recent days of testing a driverless Model Y in Austin have been accident-free, and if everything continues smoothly, Tesla intends to broaden its robotaxi service to additional cities later this year. By 2026, the platform will be accessible to vehicle owners who wish to rent out their cars to the robotaxi fleet for various durations in order to earn money, with Tesla taking a cut similar to Uber’s model.

    In June, Tesla is also set to make its first driverless delivery of a brand-new Model Y directly from the factory to its owner, as shared by Elon. This delivery will likely occur in Austin again, since Texas has relatively lenient regulations concerning self-driving vehicles compared to those that have a human driver.

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  • Tesla Provides Free 2-Day Trials for Model Y and Cybertruck

    Tesla Provides Free 2-Day Trials for Model Y and Cybertruck

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is implementing zero APR financing for the Model 3 and a 1.99% interest rate for the new Model Y to increase sales during a potentially slow quarter.

    2. Sales in Europe have halved compared to last year, with stagnation also seen in the US and China, prompting Tesla to launch a new demo drive initiative.

    3. A new 48-hour test drive format for multiple models, including the Cybertruck, has attracted significant interest, with bookings filling up weeks in advance.

    4. The Cybertruck is facing high depreciation rates, losing an average of 38% of its value within the first year, which is unusual for electric vehicles.

    5. Concerns about the Cybertruck’s pricing and market perception have led to its rapid decline in resale value, affecting owner sentiment.


    After launching zero APR financing for the Model 3 and a 1.99% interest rate for the new Model Y, as well as reinstating free FSD transfers and extending discounts for military personnel, educators, and first responders, Tesla has come up with a creative approach to boost sales during what could be a sluggish quarter.

    Sales Challenges in Europe and Beyond

    In Europe specifically, Tesla’s sales have declined by half compared to last year, while sales in the US and China have also been stagnant, although the reasons differ. The possible elimination of the EV tax credit in the new budget bill might prompt buyers to act sooner, thus helping the quarter in the US. To support this, Tesla has rolled out a fresh demo drive initiative.

    New 48-Hour Test Drive Format

    For the first time, anyone can reserve a long 48-hour test drive with the Model Y, Model 3, Model S, Model X, and even the Cybertruck. Tesla made the announcement about the complimentary Model Y and Cybertruck trials over the Memorial Day weekend, and it appears to have resonated well, as bookings are now full for weeks ahead.

    Some showrooms are noticing that many current Tesla owners are reserving multiple test drive slots to experience the new Model Y or the Cybertruck for an extended duration before making a decision on an upgrade.

    Interest in the Cybertruck

    The Cybertruck seems to generate significant interest, as in many regions, the 48-hour test drives have been reserved for a month in advance. It’s still unclear if these will lead to actual sales or if people are simply curious. Recently, Tesla has also introduced a more affordable RWD Cybertruck model and started accepting trade-ins for the original Foundation Series trims, which are now over a year old.

    Unfortunately, the trade-in valuations Tesla offers to Cybertruck owners are not much different from what the first electric pickup is fetching in the second-hand market, which isn’t very high. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Cybertruck has seen a staggering average depreciation of 38% within the first year.

    High Depreciation Rates

    This figure applies to the priciest Foundation Series trim, which was priced at up to $120,000. Owners can lose over $40,000, which is about the cost of a new Model 3 AWD after the tax credit is factored in. The Cybertruck’s depreciation in just one year is significant, even by electric vehicle standards. Typically, electric cars lose around 60% of their value over the first five years, making the Cybertruck’s rate of decline unusual, especially when compared to the Rivian R1T, which depreciates only 30% in two years.

    “It used to be a bit of a status symbol, but now we’re noticing it’s not seen that way,” explains an industry insider, who also suggests that the Cybertruck may have been overpriced right from the start, which could shed light on its rapid drop in resale value within just a year.

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  • Tesla Sales Drop 49% in Europe Amid Growing EV Market

    Tesla Sales Drop 49% in Europe Amid Growing EV Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s new car registrations in Europe decreased by 50% in April 2024, despite overall electric vehicle sales increasing by 27.8%.
    2. Tesla’s sales have been declining for several months, with drops of 50%, 47%, and 36% in January, February, and March, respectively.
    3. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, like BYD and SAIC Motor, have benefited from Tesla’s decline, gaining market share and surpassing Tesla in sales.
    4. Tesla’s market share in Europe fell to 0.7% in April 2024, down from 1.3% the previous year.
    5. The launch of a new Model Y in April did not significantly improve Tesla’s sales, and CEO Elon Musk faces criticism due to his political ties.


    According to recent information, Tesla has yet to change its slow start in Europe this year. The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) stated that the American company’s new car registrations fell by 50% in April, even though electric vehicle (EV) sales in the region saw a significant increase.

    Sales Trends

    While the total car sales only declined by 0.3 percent, EVs actually improved by 27.8 percent compared to April 2024. In contrast, Tesla’s situation was quite different, as it experienced a 49 percent drop in car sales. This negative trend had been ongoing, with the company’s sales reducing by 50 percent, 47 percent, and 36 percent in January, February, and March respectively.

    Competition from Chinese Brands

    The decline in Tesla’s sales was taken advantage of by Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, who gained ground due to their competitive pricing. For example, BYD surpassed Tesla in Europe in April, as per data from JATA Dynamics. Additionally, ACEA indicated that SAIC Motor sold more cars than Tesla, achieving a 24.5 percent increase. Consequently, Tesla’s market share has fallen to 0.7 percent, down from 1.3 percent in April 2024.

    New Model Launch

    In April, Tesla launched a new iteration of its popular Model Y in Europe, but this effort did not suffice to boost sales back to prior levels. The company is also dealing with criticism stemming from CEO Elon Musk’s close ties to the current U.S. government. Nevertheless, Musk has declared his intention to spend less time on governmental matters, focusing instead on Tesla and his other businesses.

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  • Tesla Model Y: Special APR Financing Rates Available Now

    Tesla Model Y: Special APR Financing Rates Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is offering a new 1.99% APR financing rate for the 2026 Model Y Long Range AWD, aimed at enhancing affordability.
    2. Monthly payments for the AWD Model Y can start at $603 with a federal tax credit factored into the down payment.
    3. The 1.99% APR financing is available for various loan terms but cannot be combined with Tesla’s $2,000 Loyalty Incentive.
    4. A new Model Y RWD trim is introduced at $4,000 less than the AWD version, but it has a higher standard financing rate of 5.49%.
    5. The RWD variant offers the longest range among Model Y options, and lower APR financing may be introduced for this model in the future.


    After rolling out a 0% APR financing option for the Model 3, Tesla is now enhancing the affordability of the Model Y with a new interest rate offer.

    Financing Details

    While this offer isn’t as enticing as the zero APR available for the Model 3, it’s still significantly lower than the rates applied to the Model S, Model X, or even the Model Y RWD. The new deal features a 1.99% APR financing rate specifically for the 2026 Model Y Long Range AWD. This is available to eligible buyers who have a strong credit rating and requires a minimum down payment, which can be partially covered by the federal tax credit.

    Payment Options

    For the AWD trim of the Model Y, which starts at a price of $50,990 before tax credits, monthly payments can begin at $603 when utilizing the federal subsidy as part of the down payment. This option is available for the longest term of 6 years, but the 1.99% APR promotional rate is also applicable for 36-, 48-, and 60-month terms.

    However, it’s worth noting that this financing offer cannot be combined with the $2,000 Loyalty Incentive that Tesla currently provides to existing Model Y owners. Other promotions or credits from Tesla’s Refer and Earn Program can still be used alongside this new interest rate offer.

    New Model Y RWD Trim

    Tesla has also launched a more affordable Model Y RWD trim, which is priced $4,000 less than the AWD version, but it does not qualify for the 1.99% APR financing rate. Instead, the RWD variant is financed at the standard 5.49% APR, which is why the monthly payment is nearly the same as that of the dual-motor Model Y.

    The RWD trim remains a new offering that delivers the longest range amongst the Model Y options. It’s likely just a matter of time before Tesla decides to introduce lower APR financing options for this more economical Model Y as well.

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  • Tesla Chair Denies Efforts to Remove Elon Musk as CEO

    Tesla Chair Denies Efforts to Remove Elon Musk as CEO

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla denied rumors of searching for a new CEO to replace Elon Musk, with confirmations from the board chairwoman and Musk himself.
    2. Reports suggested that Tesla’s board reached out to executive search firms, indicating Musk should focus more on Tesla’s operations.
    3. Musk plans to reduce his responsibilities with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and allocate limited time to it.
    4. Tesla is facing challenges with declining demand and rising manufacturing costs, leading to a drop in net income.
    5. The company is set to introduce more affordable versions of the Model Y and Model 3 to address sales declines, but results may take time to evaluate.


    A report suggesting that Tesla is searching for a new CEO to replace Elon Musk has been firmly denied by the company, its board chairwoman Robyn Denholm, and Musk himself.

    Claims of Executive Search

    The rumor claimed that Tesla’s board reached out to prominent executive search firms to explore the possibility of finding a replacement. They reportedly focused on one particular firm, indicating to Musk that he should dedicate more time to Tesla’s operations.

    Musk did not raise any objections and declared that starting in May, he would cut back on his responsibilities with the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He has exited the West Wing office, where he was working on reducing government expenditure. During the last cabinet meeting, Trump expressed gratitude towards Musk and mentioned that he probably wishes to “return to his cars.”

    Ongoing Communication

    The Chief of Staff for Trump stated that communication with Musk remains regular, but instead of face-to-face meetings, they are now conversing over the phone, achieving “the same net effect.”

    Musk had previously mentioned that he would only allocate one or two days a week to DOGE, leaving his assembled team to manage operations.

    Challenges for Tesla

    Tesla is currently grappling with a significant drop in demand and rising manufacturing costs, a situation that has worsened since Musk took up his role at the White House, leading to a notable decline in net income last quarter.

    While the company attempted to connect the drop in shipments to the timing of the new Model Y launch and factory upgrades, the ongoing decline in sales, particularly in Europe, suggests a possible long-term shift in brand perception.

    To tackle these challenges, Tesla is preparing to introduce more affordable versions of the Model Y and Model 3, which will feature lower specifications and reduced interior comforts. However, despite Musk’s renewed focus on daily operations, it may take several quarters before shareholders can accurately assess the effectiveness of these strategies.

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  • 30% Cheaper Model Y: 55 kWh Battery & Cloth Seats Leaked

    30% Cheaper Model Y: 55 kWh Battery & Cloth Seats Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla plans to introduce more affordable models, including a budget-friendly version of the Model Y, with a design similar to the Model Y and Model 3 but not identical.

    2. The new Model Y, referred to as project E80, is expected to be priced between $20,600 and $26,000, representing a 30% decrease compared to the current Model Y’s pricing.

    3. To reduce manufacturing costs, Tesla will utilize existing production lines and modify the design of the Model 2, which is now on hold due to other projects.

    4. The budget Model Y will feature a smaller battery (50-55 kWh) and fewer comfort features, such as cloth seats and reduced audio systems, to keep costs low.

    5. Despite the lower price point, the basic specifications like range and acceleration are anticipated to remain similar to those of the current Model Y.


    According to the Chief Financial Officer of Tesla and lead engineer Lars Moravy, the company is set to unveil more affordable models that will share a “similar shape and form” to its best-selling electric cars, the Model Y and Model 3, soon.

    New Design Insights

    However, similar does not mean identical. Recent leaks have revealed the framework and specifications for the more budget-friendly Model Y. A drone flying over Tesla’s Fremont factory has captured images of several body frames resembling the Model Y SUV, although the roof appears to be smaller than that of the popular crossover. Additionally, there is a frame that seems to feature falcon wing doors, hinting at a potential facelift for the Model X.

    Another recent sighting shows a disguised vehicle being towed, maintaining the crossover silhouette but with a more sloped rear, similar to what was previously seen at Giga Texas.

    Project E80 Unveiled

    This aligns with Tesla’s plans for the Model 2, its most affordable car, which was said to look like a smaller version of the Model Y. With Tesla’s sales declining and the Model 2 project being put on hold for the launch of the Cybercab, it seems that the design for Model 2 has been modified to fit the existing production lines.

    Lars Moravy mentioned that this approach is aimed at reducing manufacturing expenses to offer the lowest monthly payments for buyers. Instead of creating an entirely new design that would necessitate major retooling or new production lines, Tesla is focusing on leveraging its current setups.

    Pricing and Specifications

    As the first body frames for the smaller, more affordable Model Y may be taking shape, its specs and pricing have begun to surface from China. Known as project E80, the new compact Model Y could be priced between $20,600 and $26,000, depending on the sources from Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory. This pricing is more competitive compared to rivals in the crossover market and represents at least a 30% decrease from the Model Y Juniper facelift in China.

    Interestingly, a few weeks ago, rumors surfaced about a budget Tesla vehicle codenamed E41, indicating that the US might see an entry-level Model 3. During the quarterly earnings call, Tesla’s CFO confirmed that the company’s research and development efforts are concentrated on “cheaper models.”

    Features and Specifications

    To achieve this lower price point for the Model Y, besides downsizing the vehicle, insiders suggest that a more basic version will be released. Initially, the battery will be in the range of 50-55 kWh, which should help in lowering production costs significantly. Despite the smaller battery, the range is expected to remain relatively unchanged due to the lighter weight and smaller wheels.

    Many design and comfort features typically found in Tesla vehicles will be absent. Following the trend set by the RWD Cybertruck and Model 3, the cheaper Model Y will likely come with cloth seats that are neither heated nor ventilated. Additional features such as a rear screen, dual-layer acoustic glass, and multicolor ambient lighting will also be removed, and the number of speakers will drop from 15 to seven.

    The automatic trunk gate and panoramic glass roof will also be eliminated, yet there’s no confirmation regarding the distinctive exterior light bars that characterize the new Model Y design. The RWD Cybertruck does not include light bars, indicating that the cheaper Model Y may follow suit if Tesla aims to keep costs low.

    Conclusion

    In essence, the more affordable Model Y will be a “smaller, to be sure” version of the current Juniper refresh, as Elon Musk commented on the Model 2 a few quarters ago, and it will be a basic model in terms of comforts and design features.

    Basic specifications like range and acceleration are not expected to differ much, while the price is projected to be around 30% lower, which would place it in the desirable $25,000 to $30,000 range in the US after accounting for federal tax credits.

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