My AccountTesla Model Y
Next generation electric SUV
Built for success
Elon Musk believes the Tesla Model Y has the potential to become the most popular car or even the most popular vehicle in the world. The first Model Y variants – the Long Range and the Performance – were delivered to our region back in summer 2021 . The two are now set to be joined by a more low-key sibling starting from the end of 2022. This version will be equipped with a smaller battery, rear-wheel drive instead of four-wheel drive, and – most importantly – a much more attractive price tag.
The Model Y takes the chassis, interior and drivetrain of the Model 3 while imitating the chunky SUV design style of the Model X. Withe extra luggage space and the option to include a third row of seats (allowing for seven occupants in total), this vehicle is a fantastic addition to the mid-range segment. Spacious, stylish and efficient. This car has it all.
Designed for comfort
Initially launched as the Long Range and then retooled as the Performance, the Model Y is now hitting the markets again in its low-priced Standard Range guise. Part SUV, part egg-shaped profile, the Model Y stands out thanks to the brand's distinctive nose cone. The spacious, yet minimalist interior is typical Tesla and reminiscent of the Model 3. In contrast to the mid-size variant, however, the Y has enough extra space for two more seats.
The panoramic glass roof fitted as standard enhances the sense of spaciousness. Inside, comfort is the number one focus, with front and rear heated seats, two-zone air conditioning and synthetic leather upholstery. The electronics systems are an essential addition – not to mention typical of the brand – with a 15-inch touchscreen that serves as a dashboard and infotainment centre, a wireless charger for two smartphones, a hi-fi system with 13 loudspeakers and a subwoofer, and multiple US ports. Software updates are received over the air – just like a smartphone.
An interesting basic version
The Model Y falls firmly in the middle of the Tesla range. This electric car is a robust workhorse with driving characteristics worth writing home about. The Performance variant offers fantastic performance with a higher top speed and quicker acceleration, while the Long Range has a greater range and is around €4,000 cheaper. The Model Y Long Range can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a nippy 5.1 seconds, but the Performance goes one better by doing it in an unbelievably quick 3.7 seconds.
Those in the market for something less flashy and more modestly priced may now be tempted by the intriguing rear-wheel-drive edition: it's no slouch, going from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, has a range of 430 kilometres on a full battery, and costs a good €15,000 less than the Long Range. Where the Performance and the Long Range have a 75 kWh battery that can be charged at 250 kW, the rear-wheel variant has a smaller 57.5 battery that can be charged at 170 kW via direct current.
Like all Tesla cars, the versatile Model Y has a low centre of gravity and an excellent safety rating. For a surcharge, the Model Y can be fitted with Tesla's Enhanced Autopilot and even Full Self-Driving Capability (as the brand refers to it). Everything else comes as standard, and there is no extra fee for a metallic finish. In short, the Model Y is a smart package containing the best Tesla has to offer.
Tesla Model Y specifications
Tesla Model Y | Tesla Model Y Long Range | Tesla Model Y Performance | |
|---|---|---|---|
SUV/Seats | 5 to 7 | 5 to 7 | 5 to 7 |
Electric Range (WLTP) | 430 km | 533 km | 514 km |
Acceleration (0-100k/h) | 6.9 sec | 5.0 sec | 3.7 sec |
Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | AWD |
Battery capacity | 75.0 kWh | 75.0 kWh | 75.0 kWh |
Fast charge time 20% to 80% | 20 minutes | 19 minutes | 19 minutes |
Top FAQs electric driving
What is a full electrical vehicle? An electric vehicle, also called an EV, uses one or more electric motors or traction motors for propulsion. The energy used for driving an EV is stored in the battery and the battery is charged at a charge station (at home, at the office or in public).What do I need to charge my electric vehicle? To charge your electric vehicle, you will require a recharging station, a charging cable, and a charging card.How many kilometres can I drive on a fully charged battery? A fully charged battery with a capacity of 40 kW will enable you to drive 200 to 250 kilometers. If you drive sensibly, you will achieve even more. Speed has the most effect on the amount of power drawn down from your battery, so you are advised to keep to the permitted speed limits. There are also other factors that may have an effect on your driving range: - High or low temperatures (resulting in continuous operation of the air conditioning/heating) - A (too) sporty driving style - Driving with a strong headwind - A fully loaded car - Driving uphill for a long period of time Does an electric vehicle require different maintenance than a vehicle with petrol or diesel? An electric vehicle requires less maintenance. This is due to the engine's reduced number of moving parts compared to a conventional combustion motor, which therefore leads to reduced wear. Moreover, oil changes are a thing of the past and the vehicle does not have an exhaust or gears. In addition, the brakes are less susceptible to wear thanks to the regenerative braking capacity.How safe are electric vehicles? Electric vehicles are approved for all safety factors, just like conventional vehicles. In the event of a collision, there is a possibility that some parts may receive an active charge or that short-circuiting causes an electrical fire, though the safety precautions and construction have limited this risk to an absolute minimum.How long will it take to charge my vehicle? That depends on a number of factors: the type of vehicle, the power left in the battery, how fast your vehicle charges, and which type of recharging station you will be using. When charging your vehicle with a standard power socket, approximately 10 hours is required. This is approximately 2 to 4 hours when using a public recharging terminal. When using a fast-charger (primarily located along highways), your battery will reach 80% charge in 30 minutes. Do keep in mind that using fast-chargers is more expensive than standard recharging stations.What does it cost to charge an electric vehicle? This depends on where you will be charging your vehicle. Home recharging stations are the most economical in most situations. The average electric vehicle uses 15 to 20 kWh per 100 km. If your home electricity rate is €0.25 and you drive an average of 15,000 km per year, your charging costs will range between €563 and €750 per year. When charging away from home, your rate is determined by the recharging terminal provider. A starting fee and incentive rate are often charged in addition to the kWh charge. Via www.plugsurfing.com, you'll find an overview of available recharging terminals in Belgium and Europe including the price per kWh.Â
