Tesla Adds Affordable Rear-Wheel Drive Model Y Variant in the US

Details of the New Model Y Variant:

  • The RWD Model Y replaces the recently discontinued Model Y All Wheel Drive (AWD).
  • It is priced $3,750 cheaper than the AWD Model Y, making it the most budget-friendly Model Y option.
  • The RWD Model Y is expected to use lithium-iron phosphate batteries, which are less expensive to manufacture compared to high-nickel battery compositions.
  • While the RWD Model Y has a range of 260 miles, slightly less than the discontinued AWD model’s range of 279 miles, lithium-iron phosphate batteries are known for their efficiency and long lifespan.

Performance Specifications:

  • Top Speed: 135 mph
  • Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 6.6 seconds

Availability and Optional Features:

  • Tesla plans to begin deliveries of the new RWD Model Y in the coming months.
  • Customers can opt for additional features such as Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000) and Full Self-Driving ($12,000).

Tesla’s Delivery Outlook:

  • Tesla recently reported quarterly deliveries that fell short of Wall Street’s expectations.
  • The company maintains its goal of achieving 1.8 million deliveries for the entire year, and the introduction of the more affordable RWD Model Y may contribute to reaching that target.