New interior design and materials
One of the most noticeable changes in the updated Model Y is the removal of the wood-like panel that used to run across the dashboard and the driver’s door. This panel has been replaced by a nano-fabric-like material that gives the interior a more modern and sleek look. The new material also matches the color of the seats and the steering wheel, creating a more harmonious aesthetic.
The new interior design also features a more minimalist approach, with fewer buttons and knobs on the dashboard and the center console. The touchscreen display remains the main interface for controlling the vehicle’s functions, but it now has a green ambient lighting strip that runs along its edges. The ambient lighting can be changed to any of the 256 colors available, according to the driver’s preference.
New wheels and improved performance
Another change that Tesla has made to the Model Y in China is the introduction of new wheels. The updated Model Y now comes with 19-inch Gemini wheels as standard, which have a more aerodynamic design and a silver finish. The optional 20-inch Induction wheels have also been redesigned, with a darker color and a more angular shape.
The new wheels are not only for cosmetic purposes, but they also improve the performance of the Model Y. According to Tesla’s website, the updated Model Y RWD (rear-wheel drive) variant can now accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, which is one second faster than before. The updated Model Y AWD (all-wheel drive) variant can also achieve the same speed in 5 seconds, which is 0.3 seconds faster than before.
New ambient lighting system
The most striking feature of the updated Model Y is the new ambient lighting system that can be seen in action in a leaked video from China. The video shows that the ambient lighting system consists of LED strips that run along the dashboard, the door panels, and the footwells. The ambient lighting can be controlled by the touchscreen display, where the driver can choose from different colors and modes.
The ambient lighting system adds a touch of personalization and fun to the Model Y, as it can create different moods and atmospheres inside the vehicle. For example, the driver can choose a red color for a sporty feel, a blue color for a relaxing feel, or a rainbow color for a festive feel. The ambient lighting system can also be synced with the music playing in the vehicle, creating a dynamic light show.
Availability and price
The updated Model Y is currently only available in China, where it was launched last week. Tesla has not announced when it will bring the updated Model Y to other markets, such as Australia, where it is one of the best-selling EVs. However, some analysts expect that Tesla will eventually roll out the updated Model Y globally, as it did with the refreshed Model 3 earlier this year.
The updated Model Y has no additional cost for customers in China, as it retains the same price as before. The base RWD variant starts at 276,000 yuan ($43,000), while the AWD variant starts at 347,900 yuan ($54,000). The updated Model Y also qualifies for China’s EV subsidies, which can lower the price by up to 14,000 yuan ($2,000).
