- Tesla has introduced a new variant to the Model Y range, replacing the existing entry-level variant of the best selling EV.
- With UK prices starting at £46,990, its offers more range than the current AWD Long Range variant, and at a lower price tag – with order books open now.
- It offers a series of technical changes, helping to make it the most efficient Model Y yet, when it comes to miles per kWh.
A long-distance EV contender from Tesla
Previously, the long-range variant of the Model Y was solely a dual-motor affair. In this new specification, called ‘Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive’, however, Tesla have used a single motor setup, alongside a higher-density battery pack, a heat pump, and special tyres with lower rolling resistance, to further boost efficiency. This new specification will replace the current most-affordable Model Y, the £44,900 ‘Rear-Wheel Drive’ – which, in comparison, had a much lower WLTP-rated range of 283 miles. This new model boosts that to an impressive WLTP range of 373 miles – right on par with other electric SUV rivals, such as the Ford Explorer Extended Range’s 374 miles. The manufacturer says this value has been achieved through its recent efforts to bring down its cost, achieved primarily through economies of scale – understandable, considering the Model Y’s record sales figures.
Tesla estimates with this efficiency, under certain use cases drivers could spend less than £200 a year on charging. Based on 10,000 miles of annual travel, with all charging taking places at home, on a 7p/kWh Octopus tariff, total charging cost for the year would be just £175 – compared to £1,800, for an equivalent petrol SUV. Of course, if you’re required to use public chargers, that annual cost will rise, but with the 373 mile range, Tesla are hoping this model will appeal to customers who can always plug in at home.
This new model retains the same design, both inside and out, of existing models. Whether in the future, Tesla plans to bring the Model Y design in line with the facelifted Model 3, remains to be seen.
