Tesla Model Y – The Crossover SUV
Elon Musk introduced the Tesla Model Y a few days ago at the Tesla Design Studio in Los Angeles. Why choose Y? Apparently because its S3XY. Although Musk originally intended to complete the acronym with the letter E, Ford threatened to sue and thus the Model 3 was born. So what did we learn about this hot new model? Quite a lot!
The Tesla Model Y starts at $39,000 and ends at $60,000, with the higher end version being available first, in Fall of 2020. The Model Y is very similar to the Model 3 in size, but with more cargo room and height. The vehicle contains 66 cu ft of space and can fit up to 7 people, with the addition of an optional third row. The back two rows fold down to allow for storage. How does it compete with other crossover SUVs?
Model Y Performance
The average crossover goes 0-60mph in 5-6 seconds, whereas the Tesla Model Y Performance version clocks 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds, making it even faster than the Porsche Cayenne. The Model Y also has a max speed of 150mph, is available in AWD, has a range of around 280mi and can be charged to 168mi in 15min at a charger station. If you’re interested in the stripped down economical version, you can expect a range of 230mi, a 0-60 time of 5.9 seconds and a max speed of 120mph.
Safety Features
Like all Teslas, the Model Y has a low center of gravity, rigid body structure and large crumple zones, making it one of the safest cars on the road. All versions will include emergency braking, collision warning, blind-spot and monitoring. Autopilot will also be available.
The Popularity of Crossover SUVs
Tesla has made about 550,000 cars since 2008 and yet they expect the Model Y to outsell the Model S, Model 3 and Model X combined. This is because crossover SUVs are currently the number one vehicle type in America. Is Tesla up to the task? Apparently, Tesla has determined they’re ready.