Tesla has launched a new version of its Model Y, offering the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive in the U.S. This debut comes after the launch of the Quicksilver color option previously only available overseas in Europe and Asia.
This new Model Y replaces the previous regular RWD and is priced at $44,990, offering 320 miles of range. This means the entry price for a Model Y has increased $2,000, but you get more range at 320 miles (versus 260 miles before), a 23% increase and a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds.
For $3,000 more, you can step up to the Long Range All-Wheel Drive. That small difference will definitely lead people to AWD configuration which has a faster 0-60 mph time of 4.8 seconds.
What’s even more interesting? Tesla will soon allow the 260 mile Model Y RWD get more unlocked range by paying $1,500 to $2,000, depending on battery pack, according to CEO Elon Musk.
“The “260 mile” range Model Y’s built over the past several months actually have more range that can be unlocked for $1500 to $2000 (gains 40 to 60 miles of range), depending on which battery cells you have,” said Musk on Friday night. “Working through regulatory approvals to enable this.”
When asked why Tesla can’t give this away for free to existing owners? He replied, “we have to pay the bills somehow.”
As of writing, this new Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive is not showing as available in Canada yet.
Tesla has also revamped its website for the Model Y, making it simpler and cleaner as part of the buying process.