Tesla is reportedly planning to launch a seven-seat version of the China-built Model Y in the Chinese and European markets this October, according to a report by China’s National Business Daily.
The production of this new variant has allegedly already begun at Tesla's Shanghai Gigafactory. However, Tesla's China team dismissed this report as false news, according to Shanghai Securities News.
Tesla initially introduced the Model Y in March 2019, highlighting its potential as a 7-seater SUV. However, this option was only made available in the U.S. starting in 2021. Moreover, only the dual-motor, four-wheel-drive Model Y Long Range variant supports the 7-seater option, where consumers are required to fork out an additional $2,000 (RM8,600).
Moreover, earlier this year, reports surfaced suggesting that Tesla was planning to release an updated version of the Model Y, code-named “Juniper,” in early 2025. This raises the question of whether the seven-seat configuration could be part of the upcoming refresh for this popular but ageing model.
Meanwhile in Malaysia, Tesla has recently offered a substantial discount of RM30,600 on the less popular Model Y Performance, likely in an effort to clear its ageing inventory. This move could indicate that the refreshed Model Y “Juniper” might arrive even before the year ends.
The updated seven-seat Model Y is said to be 45 kilograms heavier due to the inclusion of a third row of seats, with the maximum passenger weight limit increased by 70 kilograms.
Additionally, National Business Daily reported that the Chinese made 7-seater Model Y had already completed the necessary certification processes in Europe. This report further highlighted that the 7-seater option is needed to boost Tesla's sales performance in markets where it has recently lost ground to BMW.
It is also good to point out that the Model Y's interior is generally designed for a 5-seater configuration and although the third row, two extra seat options would attract buyers with larger families it is only ideal for younger children and may be too small for even younger adults.
Tesla's Shanghai Gigafactory, the company's largest factory outside of the U.S., produces the Model 3 and Model Y for both Chinese and overseas markets including Malaysia. The Model Y, in particular, has proven to be a highly popular model driving a significant portion of Tesla's sales globally.
Source: CNEVPOST
