- Tesla has quietly added a new, rear-drive version of the Model Y compact SUV to its U.S. lineup.
- The EPA range estimate jumps to 357 miles from a full charge, giving it 30 miles more than the dual-motor version on a full charge.
- Pricing for the new model starts at $46,630 before incentives, with deliveries expected to start in the next three to five weeks.
The Tesla Model Y just got a little bit cheaper. The automaker added a new, rear-drive version of the Model Y compact electric SUV to its U.S. lineup. Tesla doesn’t actually include powertrain specifics on its consumer site, so we’re left to speculate a little, but we’re pretty confident that the rear-drive model uses a single electric motor mounted to the rear axle. Unfortunately, just as with the Long Range AWD and Launch Edition versions of the updated Model Y, there’s no mention of the new model’s horsepower total. Even without horsepower specifics, it’s not shocking to see that the single-motor Model Y loses some sprinting prowess compared to its dual-motor sibling. While the AWD Y is rated for a 4.6-second sprint to 60 mph, the new version takes 5.4 seconds for the same feat.As with the powertrain, the available battery information is sparse. Tesla lists the EPA estimated range at 357 miles, giving the rear-drive model a 30-mile advantage over the dual-motor version. Upgrading from the standard 19-inch wheels to the optional 20-inchers drops the range estimate to 344 miles. According to Tesla, optimal Supercharging can add up to 182 miles of range in 15 minutes.Pricing for the rear-drive Model Y starts at $46,630 before any tax incentives are added, which makes it $4000 cheaper than the Long Range AWD alternative. The new model can be ordered now, with Tesla’s consumer site estimating that deliveries will take three to five weeks. More on the Model YJack Fitzgerald’s love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1.
After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf.
Source: caranddriver.com
