Tesla has introduced a new ‘Long Range Rear Wheel Drive’ variant of the Model Y, replacing the entry-level version with a slight price increase but significantly improved range. Priced at £46,990, it costs £2,000 more than its predecessor but delivers up to 373 miles on a single charge, a substantial upgrade from the previous model's 283 miles.
The enhanced range comes from a larger battery, paired with a heat pump and low-rolling-resistance tyres for efficiency, allowing the Model Y to achieve around four miles per kilowatt-hour. Tesla estimates that with an EV energy tariff offering 7p per kWh during off-peak hours, home charging for 10,000 miles could cost as little as £175 annually.
Performance is also impressive, with the single motor on the rear axle producing 342bhp, enabling the SUV to accelerate from 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds—faster than the VW Golf GTI. The Model Y has a top speed of 135mph and a towing capacity of 1,600kg.
Charging speed has been improved as well, with a maximum of 250kW compared to 150kW in competitors like the Renault Scenic. This means a 15-minute charge at a Tesla Supercharger can add 150 miles of range.
In terms of design, the exterior and interior of the Model Y remain unchanged, featuring a 15.4-inch central display, 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, heated seats, two-zone climate control, and adaptive cruise control. Buyers can choose from five exterior paint colors and either black or white vegan upholstery. Optional upgrades include a towbar and 20-inch wheels, though the latter reduces the maximum range to 351 miles.
Deliveries of the new Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD are expected to begin later this month. This new variant closely matches the 379-mile range of the Renault Scenic E-Tech, though the Scenic remains slightly cheaper, starting at £40,995 for long-range models.
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