Tesla’s most affordable electric SUV appears to be nearing a Canadian debut. A camouflaged Model Y Standard was spotted testing on public roads in Richmond, British Columbia this weekend — marking the first time the new entry-level variant has been seen in Canada.
The sighting was captured by a local owner, showing a test vehicle wearing camouflage across its rear bumper and tailgate area, even though it had already launched in the U.S. and Europe.
Despite the camouflage (or maybe because of), we know it was a Standard trim as it also featured the updated center console, according to the spotter.
A Hint at Imminent Launch in Canada
The appearance of a test unit in Canada strongly indicates that Tesla is preparing to bring the Model Y Standard to Canada.
Tesla has yet to officially announce the variant for Canada, but given the company’s pattern of validating vehicles locally before launch, this is a promising sign that it will eventually appear on the Canadian configurator at some point in the future.
When it does, it will likely be imported from Giga Berlin in Germany, unless the U.S. tariffs are removed by then.
What to Expect from the Model Y Standard
The Model Y Standard is Tesla’s new base configuration of its best-selling SUV, designed to deliver maximum efficiency and affordability. Built at Giga Berlin, Giga Texas, and Fremont, it comes with a single rear motor, a range of around 321 miles (516 km), and a top speed of 217 km/h. Pricing in the U.S. starts at $39,990, positioning it as Tesla’s most affordable SUV yet.
Inside, the vehicle retains Tesla’s minimalist design with a 15.4-inch center display, heated front seats and steering wheel, and the latest software features including Sentry Mode, Dog Mode, and Trip Planner. Like other Model Ys, it provides full access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, which now exceeds 26,000 stalls across North America, but has a slightly lower peak charging rate of 225kW due to the smaller battery.
For now, Tesla hasn’t confirmed Canadian pricing or launch timing, but the sighting in Richmond is the clearest signal yet that the Model Y Standard’s Canadian arrival is around the corner.
