Key Takeaways
1. The latest Model Y currently offers only a five-seat interior option, indicating potential future variants.
2. Insiders suggest that a six-seat version will be released before a seven-seat version, particularly in China.
3. The new six-seat Model Y may have a different design compared to typical Chinese models, which often include three rows of full-size seats.
4. Tesla is planning to start production of a three-row Model Y at Giga Shanghai soon.
5. The upcoming Model Y with a third row will likely feature an extended wheelbase for increased comfort.
At the ordering page, the latest Model Y is shown with just one “five seat interior” option in both the US and China. This suggests that Tesla is possibly considering other versions in the future.
Potential Variants
Last September, some insiders stated that the Juniper refresh could also include a seven-seat and even a six-seat versions, depending on the market demand.
Thinking about a new Model Y with seven seats isn’t too far-fetched, since the previous model offered an option with an additional row of two tight seats stored in the trunk floor. Tesla’s lead engineer, Lars Moravy, confirmed the arrival of this model “later this year” during an interview with Jay Leno, shortly after the facelift of the 2026 Model Y in the US.
Market Differences
At that time, insiders mentioned that the six-seat version of the Model Y would be released before the seven-seater, especially in China, where this setup is gaining popularity among families. However, the varying seat numbers in the rumors about the new Model Y can coexist without problem.
Unlike Tesla, which adds extra child seats in the trunk, many Chinese six-seaters, such as the well-liked M4 Yacht Forthing hybrid, typically feature an extended wheelbase. This design includes three rows of two full-size seats each and a foldable child seat in the last row.
Manufacturing Plans
Tesla might be working on a similar setup for the Chinese market. A source known for reliable leaks regarding automakers’ future plans has reported that a 3-row Model Y is set to start production at Giga Shanghai as early as this week.
According to reports, the new Model Y with a third row will also have an extended wheelbase. This indicates that Tesla may be considering a more comfortable option compared to its earlier model, which maintained the same wheelbase regardless of the seating arrangement.
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