Tesla said on its official Weibo account that a new "Model Y L" is "coming soon," signalling the imminent debut of an extended-wheelbase version of its best-selling sport-utility vehicle in China. The post did not give a firm launch date, but industry commentators expect the model to be unveiled within the next two weeks so deliveries can begin before the end of the third quarter. Images and a short video released on Chinese social media show a six-seat layout with individual second-row captain’s chairs, a black headliner, redesigned front seats with additional leg and lumbar support, extra air vents for the second and third rows, and a flat-floor cargo area that can be power-folded. Market commentary accompanying the teaser says Tesla is targeting a driving range of up to 751 km (466 miles) under China’s light-duty vehicle test cycle, though the company has not confirmed final specifications. Several Model Y L prototypes have been spotted on public roads across China in recent days, underscoring the advanced stage of preparations. Because the variant is built on the same production lines as the standard Model Y, analysts believe Tesla could introduce it to other markets—including production out of its Texas factory—without significant retooling. The Model Y L is Tesla’s first major variant for the Chinese market since it began local deliveries in 2020 and comes as the U.S. automaker faces intensifying competition from domestic electric-vehicle makers. Tesla shares were down about 0.6% in pre-market trading after the announcement.
The new Model Y L is going to be a hit. https://t.co/RfDPJsuhqX
Here are the powered armrests on the captains chairs in the second row seats in the new Tesla Model Y L https://t.co/lkpGgojcIJ
New Tesla Model Y L features: • Black headliner (a first for a Model Y variant) • Redesigned front seats that are more comfortable and have adjustable headrests • Arm rests and cup holders in third row • Additional front seat leg-rest support • Six-seat configuration. https://t.co/m9REWzmhVy