Tesla appears to be preparing to expand its Model Y lineup in South Korea as the automaker’s Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) variant has received official certification.
Certification documents published through South Korea’s vehicle efficiency database show a newly approved Model Y RWD, alongside a separate Model Y Premium RWD variant already available in the market. This RWD variant is what Tesla used to call the Model Y Standard, a pared-down version of the electric SUV.
The filing, first shared by X user @Tslachan, is significant because all Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles currently imported into South Korea are sourced from Giga Shanghai in China.
As a result, the appearance of the new certification strongly suggests Tesla has added another Model Y configuration to its Giga Shanghai production lineup.
Possible Expansion of Giga Shanghai Production
Tesla’s Shanghai factory has become the company’s primary export hub for many markets across Asia-Pacific and Europe. Tesla has previously expanded production of the Model 3 at Giga Shanghai to include the RWD variant, which is now also available in Canada. This latest certification raises the possibility that a similar strategy is now being applied to the Model Y.
While Tesla has not officially announced the vehicle or released pricing details, regulatory approvals are one of the final steps before a new model becomes available for sale.
Launch Could Be Near
With certification now complete, the next step will likely be Tesla adding the new Model Y RWD to its Korean configurator. If the vehicle is indeed being produced at Giga Shanghai, deliveries could begin relatively quickly once orders open.
Model Y RWD Specs
According to the certification documents, the newly approved Model Y RWD features a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery with an energy efficiency rating of 5.9 km/kWh and a driving range of 411 km under South Korea’s testing standard.
The vehicle carries a curb weight of 1,905 kg (4,200 lbs) and received a top-tier Grade 1 energy efficiency rating. This is heavier than the Model Y RWD produced in North America, which comes in at 1,842 kg (4,061 lbs).
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