Tesla recently launched the new Model Y, bringing a host of upgrades aimed at enhancing efficiency, comfort, and design. In a recent discussion with the Tesla Owners Silicon Valley club, Nathan Di Giusto, Tesla’s Head of Vehicle Engineering for the Model 3/Y platform, and Emmanuel Lamacchia, the Model Y Program Manager, shared exclusive insights into these new changes.
Design Enhancements Inspired by Customer Feedback
One of the notable revelations was Tesla’s original design intent to forgo exterior logos on the new Model Y altogether, much like how the Cybertruck is badgeless. However, regulatory requirements in China mandated the inclusion of Tesla’s signature ‘T’ emblem on the hood of the electric SUV.
Another significant update comes to the rear seats, which now feature an in-house designed gearbox mechanism. This innovation allows for the fastest-folding rear seats in the industry, taking just four seconds compared to the seven-second industry average.
Tesla also responded to customer feedback by bringing back a dedicated turn signal stalk, moving away from the controversial button-based controls on the steering wheel introduced in some of its latest models, aligning with driver preferences for intuitive controls.
Tesla’s colour palette is also expanding, with new paint options set to debut in North America soon, presumably including the Glacier Blue that debuted at Giga Shanghai, which can be seen in the featured image of this article.
Efficiency and Comfort
Tesla engineers have also refined multiple aspects of the Model Y to improve cabin comfort and efficiency. One of the key upgrades is an acoustically sealed door latch, ensuring smoother and quieter closing. Additional sound-dampening measures include carpeted cupholders, a newly designed trunk lid, and side trim to reduce both noise and scratches. Additionally, all interior materials are now wrapped to enhance soundproofing.
Rear passengers will also benefit from a laminated rear glass panel, reducing road noise and making the cabin quieter. The power trunk lid has been improved as well, now featuring power struts on both sides instead of just one, leading to quieter operation.
Another upgrade is the new metallically coated glass roof, which incorporates two layers of silver to improve thermal performance inside the cabin. This not only helps regulate interior temperatures but also leads to lower fan speeds, boosting both efficiency and passenger comfort.
Tesla has further refined the HVAC system with the introduction of Airwave 2.0, featuring auto-oscillating fans that move side to side to optimize airflow.
Safety and Technology
Tesla is taking cabin safety to the next level with the integration of a 4D radar imaging system embedded in the first-row header. A software update expected in Q3 will activate the system, enabling dynamic airbag deployment based on passenger size and positioning.
Additionally, the system will detect child presence in the second row and monitor heart rate and breathing. In emergency situations, it will be capable of calling 911 and sending reminders to turn on HVAC if needed.
On the efficiency front, Tesla is finalizing new EPA range estimates, with early indications suggesting that the previously announced 2.8% efficiency boost may actually be closer to 5%, giving the new Model Y Long Range a driving range of approximately 330 miles (531km). Instead of opting for a larger battery, which would increase costs, charge times, and vehicle weight, Tesla has focused on small design optimizations to extract more efficiency from the existing battery pack.
For example, Tesla has fine-tuned brake calipers to reduce drag and added a small “skull cap” design on side mirrors, which surprisingly contributes an additional two to three miles of range. The Model Y also benefits from frequency-damped suspension, stiffening the front by connecting the shock tower to the body, while a new rear brace improves overall rigidity.
These changes result in a 3% increase in vehicle stiffness, further enhancing ride comfort and handling.
You can watch the full 35-minute discussion below.
BREAKING: Tesla Engineering breaks down the Model Y redesign, new features, new interior and outside look.
— Tesla Owners Silicon Valley (@teslaownersSV) February 5, 2025
The Model Y is absolutely stunning and it’ll continue to change the game.
Enjoy and let us know what you think. pic.twitter.com/NVIpq4cxC7
