Image: Tesla China
Tesla’s new Model Y L is already proving to be a smash hit in China. The extended-wheelbase, three-row variant has sold out its allocation for October, with new orders in Tesla’s online configurator now showing an estimated delivery window starting in November 2025 at the earliest.
Launched in August with a starting price of RMB 339,000 (around $47,000 USD), the Model Y L is Tesla’s first true family-focused SUV. It offers a stretched body with seating for six, adjustable second- and third-row seats, a larger 16-inch central display, and a comfort-oriented suspension system. First deliveries kicked off just last week.
Demand has been nothing short of explosive. Industry watchers estimated that the Model Y L generated more than 35,000 orders on launch day alone, and averaged roughly 10,000 orders per day through the first couple of weeks following its debut. That momentum has quickly exhausted Tesla China’s initial production slots, with the SUV now booked out through October.
The Model Y L’s early success is already showing up in Tesla’s sales numbers. Orders for the new six-seat crossover were likely a key driver behind Tesla China’s 40% month-over-month sales rebound in August. At a time when Tesla faces fierce competition from local automakers in the world’s largest EV market, the Model Y L appears to be giving the company a valuable boost.
Tesla has also been making strategic moves to stay competitive in China. Just last week, the automaker cut the price of its recently launched Model 3 Long Range RWD — capable of a record 830 km on the CLTC cycle — by RMB 10,000 (about $1,400 USD).
For now, the Model Y L remains exclusive to China. CEO Elon Musk has said the three-row Model Y variant won’t enter production in the U.S. until late 2026, if at all. Still, its strong start in China could pressure Tesla to bring the model to other markets sooner than expected, especially in regions where larger family SUVs are in demand.
With early signs pointing to blockbuster demand, the Model Y L may prove to be one of Tesla’s most important levers for growth in China — and potentially beyond.
