The Model Y is the second SUV model by Tesla and is smaller than its larger sibling, the Model X. Tesla offers three available options: Standard Range, Long Range and Performance. It offers the third row as an available option for those seeking extra seating.
A single-speed transmission is all that is needed to transmit power to the road, since unlike a traditional gasoline engine, electric motors make plenty of power all the way up to the redline. Tesla currently offers all-wheel drive as standard on the Long Range and Performance version.
The challenges electric cars must overcome have traditionally been lack of power range per charge. The Standard Range model is good for around 260 miles while range for the Model Y is claimed at around 300 miles for the Long Range and 279 miles for the Performance version. The more powerful Performance version has just a touch less range but can reach 0-60 mph in only 3.5 seconds, claimed by Tesla. As part of the deal, drivers get access to Tesla's ever-expanding network of "Supercharger" fast charging stations. With these stations placed across the United States, owners may plug in their Teslas to recharge for no additional fee. Tesla claims that about 20 minutes at a supercharger station will charge the batteries about halfway.
Another unique feature of the Model Y is the panoramic glass roof. The windshield stretches back, curving above the driver's head before finally meeting the tops of the rear doors. There is no break in the glass before that point, meaning one piece of glass acts as both a windscreen and a moonroof.
Other standard equipment on the Model Y includes 19-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable heated front seats, leatherette interior, 15-speaker sound system, 15-inch touchscreen, voice-activated navigation, LED fog lamps, Bluetooth, and wireless device charger.
Tesla's most famous feature is its "Autopilot." When equipped, the Model Y will keep pace with the other cars on the road, speeding up and slowing down with them, but it will also keep to its lane, even around gentle corners. Tesla is also offering an upgraded version, for Full Self-Driving Capability which comes with a slew of automated features such as lane changes, parking and Tesla's Summon feature.
The Model Y comes loaded with safety in conjunction with its popular Autopilot feature. The Performance and Long-Range versions come standard with dual front side-mounted airbags, front/rear head airbags, traction control, stability control, blind spot warning and pre-collision safety system. Other convenient safety features include auto delay headlamps, tire pressure monitoring, a remote anti-theft alarm system, traffic video recording and dusk sensing headlamps.
Some noteworthy options for the Tesla Model Y include 20-inch wheels, exterior paint color choices, black & white premium interior, and a tow hitch.
While the Tesla Model Y rolls into 2024 with minimal changes, Tesla is known for making updates incrementally over the course of the year to improve the car over time.
The electric SUV field is a small, but competitive and constantly expanding field. The Tesla Model Y may be the premiere compact-crossover electric vehicle available. It is pitted against popular small luxury SUVs such as the Porsche Macan, Ford Mustang Mach-E and BMW X3. It also directly competes with the all-electric Jaguar I-Pace, Audi E-tron and the Mercedes Benz EQC. Tesla is delivering performance and value to the luxury SUV segment.
