Tesla’s long-rumored Model Y Standard has been spotted driving uncovered near Giga Texas, offering the clearest look yet at what appears to be the automaker’s new entry-level crossover. The sighting took place on State Highway 130 just outside Austin on Thursday and happened at the same time as a secretive event at Giga Texas attended by select Tesla influencers.
The Model Y Standard prototype spotted with Florida manufacturer plates by X user Ryan Mable confirms several details that have emerged in recent leaks tied to Tesla’s internal “E41” project, like a redesigned and simpler front fascia, split headlights, 18″ wheels, and more.
@SawyerMerritt spotted an uncovered cheaper Model Y variant driving near Giga Texas pic.twitter.com/Fy6devXree
— Ryan Mable (@RyanMable) October 2, 2025
However, something that was not mentioned in those leaks is a slight redesigned to the rear of the vehicle. Based on the photos, the vehicle appears to feature a redesigned trunk lid and rear bumper (photo on the left), differentiating it from the current Model Y variants in production (photo on the right).
Interestingly, the vehicle also retains the rounded rear glass design from the legacy Model Y, rather than the updated rear quarter glass that has a square finish. As has been expected, the full-width taillight is also missing, with Tesla going for the split design reminiscent of the legacy Model Y.
The timing of this sighting is especially noteworthy. On the same day the vehicle was captured on camera, numerous Tesla influencers were invited to Giga Texas for a special event. While attendees were tight lipped about the reason for their visit, having also signed a non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), speculation is that they may have been given an early look at the new Model Y Standard.
Tesla has not yet officially confirmed the vehicle or released details about its specifications, but based on its positioning, the Model Y Standard is expected to become the most affordable version of Tesla’s best-selling SUV. Based on code discovered on the Tesla website, it may be priced at US$39,990, but Tesla could lower this by the time it is officially unveiled, which should happen in the next week or two.
