In addition to offering these coveted features, the new model is taking on an entirely vegan parts list, including the steering wheel and interiors, both of which have been made of leather previously. Along with meeting PETA’s requests for the company to become entirely vegan, Tesla has reportedly learned from the mistakes it made regarding production of the Model 3 (for which it set ambitious timeline goals that it was unable to meet). Founder Elon Musk has even gone as far as to say that the Model Y production will hit one million units per year while experiencing a “manufacturing revolution”.
Regardless of these mild concerns, Tesla’s newest all-electric vehicle is set to begin production in late 2020 for North America, with standard-range production slated to begin early in 2021.
The highly anticipated release is sure to turn heads and draw attention—once again—to the efficiency and performance of more environmentally friendly automobiles.
Model Y Specs
Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive
Cost: $48,000–$60,500
Time 0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds
EPA-estimated range: 300 miles
Top speed: 130 mph
Long Range Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive
Cost: $52,000–$64,500
0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds
EPA-estimated range: 300 miles
Top speed: 130 mph
Performance Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive
Cost: $61,000–$72,000
0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
EPA-estimated range: 280 miles
Top speed: 150 mph
Every version of the Model Y comes standard with blind-spot monitoring, emergency braking, and collision warning; there’s also the option to add on full self-driving capability.
Aside from offering these standard features, the Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive Model Y vehicles also have two incredibly responsive electric motors that work independently of one another. These motors digitally control torque to all four wheels for better handling, stability, and traction. Should one motor stop working, the vehicle switches over to the other seamlessly so you can keep on driving. Along with this safety feature, the Model Y was designed for all types of terrain and weather conditions.
With so many incredible destinations to visit—such as Malibu, Big Sur, Mendocino, and Lake Tahoe—where will your Tesla take you next?