Tesla is expanding its Model Y lineup in China with the introduction of a new variant — the Model Y L, an all-new version of the popular electric SUV featuring a six-seat configuration and a longer wheelbase. A version of the Model Y with an extended wheelbase has long been rumoured, but is now officially confirmed through an announcement by Tesla on Weibo and a regulatory filing with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).
The company’s announcement on its official Weibo account and included two teaser images showcasing a silhouette of its larger dimensions and a newly designed badge on the trunk lid. The new Model Y L isn’t available for purchase just yet, but the post says it will debut this fall.
While Tesla China did not reveal much information about the vehicle itself, the post was made on the same day a new regulatory filing was posted by China’s MIIT, which include the Model Y L in its public catalog. These documents confirm many key specifications and provide the first detailed look at how the new variant differs from the standard Model Y.
According to the MIIT filing, the Model Y L will measure 4,976 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,668 mm in height, with an extended wheelbase of 3,040 mm. This represents a noticeable increase in size compared to the standard Model Y currently available in China, which has a length of 4,797 mm and a wheelbase of 2,890 mm. The additional length and height allow Tesla to fit a six-seat interior layout, making the Model Y L a more family-friendly option.
Under the hood, the Model Y L will feature a Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD) powertrain. The front and rear motors produce peak power outputs of 142 kW and 198 kW respectively. The vehicle will draw energy from ternary lithium-ion battery packs supplied by LG Energy Solution, a long-standing battery partner for Tesla’s operations in China.
The Model Y L is listed with a curb weight of 2,088 kg (4,603 lbs) and a top speed of 201 km/h. This puts it slightly heavier than the current Dual Motor AWD Model Y, which weighs about 4,391 lbs.
Photos included with the filing show the new Model Y will feature an all-new wheel design, a rear spoile – something which until now has been exclusive to the Model Y Performance, and possibly a new paint colour.
While Tesla has not officially disclosed pricing, the Model Y L is expected to launch around RMB 400,000 (C$77,000/ US$55,700). This positions it well above the standard five-seat Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Model Y in China, which currently starts at RMB 263,500 (C$50,400/US$36,700), and the Long Range AWD version priced from RMB 313,500 (C$60,000/US$43,600).
Tesla says the new variant will debut in fall 2025. While there’s been no confirmation yet on whether the Model Y L will be produced outside of China or sold in international markets such as North America or Europe, its appearance in a recent firmware suggests it will be available globally.
