Built for success
Elon Musk thinks his Tesla Model Y could be the bestselling car or vehicle of any kind anywhere in the world. Brisk sales are already being reported in the US and China, the Y’s launch markets. European customers will be able to decide whether the EV will put the Y in ‘sexy’ (after S, 3, X) when deliveries begin in September 2021.
So far, there’s a lot to like. Starting with the chassis, interior, and powertrain from the smaller Model 3, the 2021 Tesla Model Y adds the SUV styling of the Model X, along with extra luggage space and an optional third row of seats to sit pretty at the mid-market level. Spacious, stylish and efficient. Check, check and check.
Designed for comfort
The Model Y launches in Long Range format in most markets, followed by the Performance trim in 2022 (only China has the pocket-friendly Standard Range model so far). Part SUV and part egg, the Model Y stands out thanks to the brand’s distinctive nose. After a year of #WFH, the cavernous but minimalist interior makes time in the car more attractive than ever – and offers enough room for an extra two seats.
A panoramic sky roof emphasizes the feeling of space, and there’s a focus on comfort with heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and simulated leather upholstery. Electronics are essential but not excessive, with a 15-inch touchscreen, wireless charger and 15-speaker sound system (plus a glovebox USB-port), as well as embedded entertainment and video games. Like a smartphone, software updates arrive over the air.
Configured for performance
Poised solidly in the middle of Tesla’s line-up, the Model Y is a solid workhorse of an EV with fantastic handling. While next year’s Performance trim offers a lowered suspension, a higher top speed and quicker acceleration, the Long Range maximizes driving range while saving €6,000.
Drivers will have to settle for a 0-100 speed of 5.1 seconds on the Long Range versus the Performance’s zippy 3.7 seconds but gain more range. Both have a 75kWh battery with 19 minutes to fast charging.
As with all Teslas, the agile Model Y has a low center of gravity with excellent safety ratings. Out of the showroom, the Model Y comes with Tesla’s Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system as well as pedestrian detection and lane assist, but optional extras are available such as self-parking and a Summon feature. Overall, the Model Y cleverly presents drivers with the best of Tesla in a smart package.
Tesla Model Y specifications
Long Range (2021) | Performance (2022) | |
|---|---|---|
SUV/Seats | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
Electric Range (WLTP) | 420 km | 400 km |
Acceleration (0-100k/h) | 5.1 sec | 3.7 sec |
Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
Battery capacity | 75.0 kWh | 75.0 kWh |
Fast charge time | (42→336 km) 19 min | (40→320 km) 19 min |
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.ÂContact us
