The Model Y L, featuring an extended wheelbase and three rows of seats, went on sale in China on 19/8. Tesla faces increasing competition there from domestic electric vehicle manufacturers like BYD and Xiaomi.
"This version of the Model Y won't begin production in the US until late next year," Tesla CEO Elon Musk replied to an X user inquiring about US availability. "It may never be sold in the US, due to the development of self-driving cars here."
Musk didn't elaborate on how the advancement of self-driving technology might eliminate the need for a 6-seat vehicle. Three-row gasoline-powered SUVs have long been popular among American families.
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The 6-seat Tesla Model Y at a showroom in China. Photo: CarNewsChina |
The 6-seat Tesla Model Y at a showroom in China. Photo: CarNewsChina
Profitably producing three-row electric vehicles remains a challenge for automakers. Recent policy changes under the Donald Trump administration also made electric vehicles more expensive, leading manufacturers to focus on smaller, more affordable models.
In China, the Model Y L targets the booming family SUV market with its 2+2+2 six-seat configuration, all-wheel drive, and continuously variable dampers. It boasts a CLTC range of 751 km and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds.
EV Insights, a Chinese automotive media outlet, visited a Tesla store in Guangzhou. Sales staff confirmed that the first deliveries are expected in September, but test drives are not yet available. They advised customers against ordering before trying the vehicle.
EV Insights focused on the Model Y L's third-row seats. While the second row features two independent seats with heating and ventilation, new speakers, and a unique power-adjustable armrest (which can be raised and lowered), the third row presents a different picture.
The Model Y L's wheelbase is 150 mm longer and its height is 44 mm greater than the standard Model Y. The sliding second-row seats enhance cabin flexibility and overall space. However, access to the third row involves a central hump about 100 mm high, which could be an obstacle.
For a 1.7 m tall person, the third row offers sufficient legroom, about a fist's width from the second row, with space to extend one leg into the center aisle.
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The second-row armrest can be raised and lowered. Photo: Yuan Qing |
The second-row armrest can be raised and lowered. Photo: Yuan Qing
However, the third-row seats are described as "small benches," suitable only for emergencies. Because the Model Y L retains the coupe SUV design, headroom is limited to slightly more than a fist's width between the head and the rear window for a 1.7 m tall person, raising concerns about head bumps on rough roads.
With all three rows in use, trunk space is minimal, accommodating only about three backpacks. Although there's an underfloor storage compartment (for two bags) and a 116-liter front trunk, overall practicality for larger items is limited.
EV Insights concludes that the Model Y L's third-row seats fall short of expectations, primarily due to Tesla's adherence to the coupe SUV body style. This design maintains the Model Y's signature look but compromises comfort.
In the US, Tesla is increasingly focused on its robotaxi ambitions. The company launched a limited robotaxi service in Austin in June and aims to expand it later this year.
In 2024, Musk told investors that building traditional vehicles would be "pointless" in a self-driving future. Next year, Tesla plans to start production of the Cybercab, a dedicated two-seat robotaxi without a steering wheel or pedals.
My Anh (Reuters, CarNewsChina)
