Tesla Model Y Revealed; Set To Go On Sale In Late-2020

 Tesla unveiled its first mid-size SUV, the Model Y, on March 16. While the Model S and Model X are premium cars, the Model Y is based on the more affordable Model 3. With the Model Y, Tesla’s has completed its ‘S3XY’ portfolio that comprises of cars such as the Model S, Model X and the Model 3. The Model Y is priced from $39,000 (roughly Rs 27 lakh) for the standard variant to $60,000 (around Rs 41 lakh) for the top-end performance variant.

While Tesla hasn’t announced the battery specs or power output, it claims that the Model Y will have a range varying from 230 miles (370km) to 300 miles (480km) depending on the variant you pick. Here’s a look at the spec comparison below :

The Tesla Model Y looks like a jacked up Model 3 and carries the same swoopy curves and design lines that is synonymous with the aerodynamic family design of Tesla. As a result, its drag coefficient is as low as 0.23. The Model Y also sports the same minimalist interior as the Model 3. The cabin is dominated by a huge 15-inch touchscreen which controls each and every aspect of the car like the infotainment system, climate control, seats, windows, etc. There’s a huge panoramic sunroof on offer to keep things airy and less claustrophobic inside. An automatic tailgate is also part of the equipment list. The cabin space at the official unveiling was demonstrated by seven people stepping out of the car. It clearly indicates that the Model Y will be available as a 7-seater as well. The Tesla Model Y will also have autonomous driving - a feature that’s available on all Tesla cars.

The Model Y will go on sale in the last quarter of 2020 and only the higher variants will be available on sale initially. The base variant is likely to hit the market by 2021. The delay could be a precautionary measure by the company as Tesla has struggled to meet the demand for the base variant of the Model 3.

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Although an India launch sounds enticing , there is eventually no timeline regarding when Tesla will bring it here. “Would love to be in India. Some challenging government regulations, unfortunately. Deepak Ahuja, our CFO, is from India. Tesla will be there as soon as he believes we should,” Elon Musk tweeted.

Expect Tesla to introduce their cars here via the CBU route initially. There are rumours that Tesla is likely to set up a Gigafactory (Tesla’s term for it’s manufacturing facility) in India after it gets a taste of the Indian market too. A facility here should help Tesla keep costs in check and will help price its cars more competitively. When launched, the Model Y will compete with the Jaguar I Pace, Polestar 3 and Mercedes EQC.

What do you think about the Model Y? Will it be the first among a whole new generation of long range electric SUVs in the country? Let us know in the comments below