Exciting news for the Model Y in the United States. Tesla introduced a Long Range rear-wheel drive version of the Model Y in this market with a range of 320 miles (EPA cycle). A choice that is not surprising given that the same thing was done in Europe a few weeks ago. The interesting thing, though, is that it was contextually the “basic” RWD version removed from the price list with a range of 260 miles (EPA cycle). The new RWD Long Range model thus becomes the “entry level” version of the electric SUV on this market.
But the news isn’t over because after Tesla announced this new model, Elon Musk spoke on X (formerly Twitter) in response to a message from Sawyer Merritt, stating that the “Base” Model Y RWDs built in recent months will be able to receive an update via OTA which will allow unlock 40-60 miles of additional range depending on the type of battery used (different cells). Unlocking which, however, will not be free and will cost 1,500-2,000 dollars.
An update which will therefore bring the autonomy of the 260 mile RWD model more or less to the level of the new Long Range model. This means that electric SUVs built in recent times had a battery with a higher capacity which, however, was limited by software. Curiously, for several months “suspicions” had emerged on American forums that the batteries of the most recent Model Y RWD were limited via software. Suspicions which at this point have been confirmed by Tesla.
Musk says the company is working to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals to be able to offer this upgrade. This news concerns only Model Y RWD models built in the United States.
The “base” RWD version was initially thought to feature LFP batteries when Tesla launched the model in October 2023 in this market. It was probably like that in the beginning. However, potentially due to requirements to get the $7,500 tax credit in 2024, Tesla likely had to revert to locally produced Type 2170 cylindrical cells.
However, this is not the first time that Tesla has adopted this strategy of offering a car with a battery pack with a higher capacity than advertised, and then offering a paid software upgrade. All you have to do is wait for the availability of this update to find out more.
