Tesla has officially launched the new version of the Model Y in China. Calling it the “First Edition,” deliveries of the new Model Y are expected to begin in China in March.
There have been no similar updates to the North American Design Studio, as both the Canadian and US configurators still shows the legacy Model Y.
According to Tesla, the new Model Y is being offered in two variants, the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Long Range All Wheel-Drive (AWD), which according to Tesla come with 593km (368 miles) and 719km (446 miles) of CLTC range respectively. CLTC range figures are higher than EPA rated figures, but these are higher than the range on the legacy Model Y in China, which came with 554km (344 miles) and 688km (427 miles) respectively, so we can hopefully expect a similar range bump when it launches in North America.
As for the exterior, the design updates match what we showed you earlier today. The front of the Model Y now features full width LED light bar and a new bumper design. The side mirrors have a slight redesign, as has been seen on recent test vehicles.
The rear of the Model Y has also had a significant redesign, again with a full width LED light bar. However, the light bar is recessed and reflects off the trunk, which Tesla calls “integrated diffuse through taillight.” The trunk lid also now carries the T E S L A lettering like the new Model 3.
Along with the new design features, Tesla has also launched a new Glacier Blue paint option for the Model Y, which is priced at ¥8,000 (C$1,570/US$1,090), making it the second most expensive paint option behind Quicksilver and Ultra Red.
The new Model Y also comes with new wheel options. Standard are the 19″ Interactive Storm Wheels, although we don’t get to see the design underneath the aero cover. You can also opt for the 20″ Spiral Storm Wheels, which appear to be the same, or very similar design as the 20″ Nova Wheels on the new Model 3.
The interior has also received some updates, with it now featuring the same LED ambient lighting, steering wheel, and center console from the Model 3. Interestingly, there is a turn signal stalk, but not a gear stalk.
Special items for the Launch Edition include a special badge on the trunk, as well as special puddle lights and door siils.
With the Model Y launching in China, and the first deliveries not expected until March, it will likely be several months before it arrives in North America. If Tesla follows a similar launch schedule as they did with the Model 3, we can expect the new Model Y to begin deliveries in Canada and the US late Q2 or early Q3.
What do you think of the new Model Y? Let us know in the comments below.
