Tesla finally launched their new Model Y midsize SUV, looking to bring additional options to those looking for a lower price than their flagship S and X vehicles. With a base rate of $42,700, it offers a step up from the Model 3 and a significant price from the Model X.
The base model starts off with the ability to travel up to 300 miles (estimate) at up to 130 mph (max speed) on a single charge. It can accomplish 0-60 mph within 5.5 seconds, setting it just 1.2 seconds slower than the Model X (base). You can upgrade your way into the performance model ($55,700) that will speed things up to 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds (and up to 150 mph max speed), making it a speedy SUV, and matching the performance model of the X.
Of course, you don’t get some of the fancy bells and whistles that come along with the Model X, like the vertically opening doors. However, thanks to the approach Tesla took on this SUV, they won’t run into the manufacturing hurdles they had with the X (they got a little carried away with the technological “ooh” and the “ahh”, which made the assembly line an unfriendly task). Now they can spit out SUVs just as fast as the 3 or S, which should help with the company’s stability some (and they sure need it).
The new Model Y is available right now for order, and hopefully this will help to usher in a whole new era for electric vehicles, along with the Model 3. Eventually, it won’t be long before $25,000 might get you something.
