Tesla to launch Model Y SUV in 2022
The American maker has revealed when the first Australian customers will get their hands on the new electric SUV.
Tesla’s long-awaited Model Y has finally arrived Down Under.
First revealed in 2019, the compact SUV is based on the super popular Tesla Model 3 sedan, the best selling EV in Australia.
The first cars are expected to be delivered to customers this August.
The Tesla Model 3 is by far the most popular electric car on sale in Australia, selling about 4500 so far this year, and the Model Y is expected to surpass it due to Australia’s love of SUVs.
It will launch initially with two variants: a Rear-Wheel Drive version priced at about $74,000 drive-away and a dual motor Performance version priced at about $105,500 drive-away.
This is about $5000 more than the equivalent Model 3 sedan. It also means it is likely to miss out on some electric car rebates offered by state governments.
Buyers of the rear-wheel drive version can expect delivery between August and November this year according to the brand’s local website.
Performance customers will have to wait a little longer with a November, 2022 to February, 2023 time frame quoted.
A Long Range version with a bigger battery is expected at a later date.
The rear-wheel drive model has a claimed driving range of 455km and boasts perky performance with a 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 217km/h.
The Performance version ups the ante considerably.
It can sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.7 seconds, which is faster than full blown performance cars such as the BMW M3, and has a top speed limited to 250km/h.
A bigger battery boosts driving range to 514km/h.
One of the Model Y’s big selling points is the voluminous cargo space measuring 2158 with the second row seats folded down, which is bigger than large SUVs such as the Kia Sorento.
The Model Y has a similar fit-out to the Model 3.
There is a single 15-inch central screen that houses the car’s controls and displays the vehicle’s vitals such as the speedo.
The Rear-Wheel Drive version comes standard with 19-inch wheels and the Performance scores 21-inch wheels.
Tesla offers very few options, with black and white interior upholstery available on the both versions and 20-inch wheels are available on the rear wheel drive.
Both models come with a HEPA air filter, which is the same type used on aircraft.
Tesla will also have a tow hitch accessory available in the early 2023.