Who Is The Tesla Model Y7
While the Model Ys seven-seat capacity is certainly convenient for carpoolers and families, its not without flaw. The cars optional third-row seat does not have the heating features that both the front and second seats offer. Additionally, the third-row seats are a bit cramped, particularly for adult passengers.
Many drivers insist that while the third-row seat is ideal for two small children, it cannot be relied on as an option for taller adult passengers. For this reason, the Tesla Model Y Long Range with optional third-row seating is best suited to families with several young children.
The cars additional storage space with both rear seats folded makes it a great option for drivers of all stripes, particularly those who have to transport cargo regularly for work and play. That said, the Tesla Model Y Performance offers similar cargo space with the rear seats folded.
Another factor that will make the 7-seat Tesla Model Y Long Range appeal to families is its impressive safety scores. In addition to receiving five-star crash ratings across the board, the Tesla Model Y has a rollover risk of only 7.9%, the lowest risk ever recorded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration .
Much of the Tesla Model Y 7-seaters high marks for safety are due to the absence of an engine in the front. Much of that space has been replaced by an additional protective barrier to deflect energy during head-on collisions.
Cost To Drivecost To Drive Estimates For The 2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range 4dr Suv Awd And Comparison Vehicles Are Based On 15000 Miles Per Year And Energy Estimates Of $013 Per Kwh For Electricity And $427 Per Gallon Average In North Dakota
The Y debuted for 2020 as a pioneer of the all-electric small SUV class. It’s similar to Tesla’s Model 3 small sedan but provides a roomier interior for both people and cargo. It even has an option for a third-row seat, albeit a tiny one. When it comes to providing a pleasing mix of space, range and performance for an EV, the Y is a standout.
For 2022, Tesla is making some small changes to the Model Y. These range from a new, lighter 12-volt lithium-ion battery to laminated rear windows to better insulate the cabin from noise. But more significant changes are also rumored to be coming for the Y. Specifically, Tesla could be changing the design of the Y’s main battery pack to a structurally integrated design known as 4680. How this new battery pack will influence the Y’s capability or performance is yet to be determined, but we’ll update this section as we learn more.
In the meantime, the Model Y faces off against fresh competition. The Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Volkswagen ID.4 have all debuted recently, and each one has appealing qualities that might win you over. Check out our test team’s full Expert Rating below to help you decide which EV is going to be best for you.
History Of The Model Y
Even before the Model 3 made its official debut, Tesla and CEO Elon Musk were already teasing some early versions of the Model Y and its Falcon-Wing doors.
After several years of teasing the public, complete with vague references and silhouette images during shareholder meetings, Tesla finally announced its newest EV, the Model Y, on March 14, 2019.
Production began the following December at Teslas Fremont factory, and by March of 2020, the first Model Ys began delivering to customers.
While the initial production of the Model Y has taken place in Fremont, Tesla has made it clear that its future production will continue at its two new gigafactories Giga Berlin, and Giga Texas. Both of which remain under construction
In the summer of 2020, Tesla revealed it would produce and sell its new Model Y in the Chinese market. Beginning in December of that year, Model Y production commenced at Giga Shanghai.
While the Model Y appears to more closely resemble the veteran Model X SUV because of its size and doors, it actually more closely matches the Model 3, sitting upon the same third-generation platform.
Heres the latest Model Y news to get you up to speed with the newest of Teslas current EV fleet:
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Breaking: Tesla Model Y 7
November 19, 2020
Tesla unveiled Model Y on March 15, 2019. The 7 seater is the model equipped with the third row option. On October 14, 2020, the company CEO Elon Musk replied on Twitter, indicating the 7 seater will be put into production in November and ready for early December delivery.
Starting production on 7 seater next month, initial deliveries early December
Elon Musk
As of today, one of our Tesmanian staff noticed his Model Y Performance 7 seater is now under the “Prepare For Delivery” status. With the typical pre-delivery process, the system requires the customer enter the delivery address to check eligibility for home delivery. In our staff persons case, he was actually required to select a pickup location from the nearest delivery centers in the area.
The next step is that the system will request personal information, such as the buyers full name, SSN, and a picture of the drivers license. Then it asks if there is a trade-in.
And finally, the last step is the payment method. You are then able to choose between cash or loan for your new Tesla Model Y.
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The Tesla Y With 7 Seats
My husband is a huge Tesla nerd. He excitedly points them out every single time we pass one. He shares strange Tesla factoids, release dates, shortage information, and resale values.
Having a Tesla is on his long-term goal list. He has been trying to figure out how to make a Tesla model work for our family.
Sadly, Tesla isnt exactly marketed as a comfortable family vehicle. With 3 small children, our family needs a vehicle that not only transports our children but also transports their car seats and their junk.
Therefore, the Toyota Sienna Hybrid was the prevailing vehicle of choice for our family. Despite its price tag, the mpgs, resale value, and features seem to be more than worth it.
BUT TESLA SHOCKED ME! I had never considered that Tesla might have a model that rivaled the Sienna given that minivans dont exactly fit the Tesla reputation.
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Tesla Will Start Making Seven
Weve been hearing about a three-row, seven seat version of Teslas Model Y crossover since before it was officially announced, but now Elon Musk says its almost here. For those who want to transport more people inside Teslas smaller electric SUV, the exec tweeted that production will begin next month ahead of the first deliveries in December.
Starting production on 7 seater next month, initial deliveries early December
Elon Musk
As Car and Driver points out, opting for a seven seat interior is a $3,000 option on Teslas website, which promises availability in 2021. Prices for the Model Y currently start at just under $50k before projected savings, so its something to think about if youre still looking into a Tesla EV in the next year or so. Theres also the possibility of a more affordable version that Musk alluded to a few months ago, while Tesla deep-diver Green tweeted in the same thread that other changes may arrive at about the same time.
Of course, none of that matters if the only requirement is performance youll want to wait for the Plaid Model S in late 2021.
Starting production on 7 seater next month, initial deliveries early December
Is The Tesla Model Y Worth The Price Premium Over The Model 3
First things first: We’ve said it in the past, and we’ll say it again, we certainly need more female automotive reviewers, and this is especially true when it comes to those who cover Tesla.
While many women own Tesla vehicles, they seem to be few and far between since most of the popular review channels are dominated by males. We’ll definitely be sharing more content from female Tesla owner Carter Jones in the future.
Jones brings a fresh perspective in this review of the 3-row Model Y, which she was fortunate to test drive recently. Moreover, her channel is packed with helpful Tesla-related content, and most of it has been published over the past few months. It’s primarily related to the Model 3 that she already owns, and there seems to be a focus on finances and features.
Jones compares the 2021 Model Y to her 2021 Model 3. The Model Y she’s checking out has the optional third row, but aside from that, it’s really no different from any other 2021 Model Y.
She’s never driven a Model Y before, and she’s considering leasing another car. In fact, she may be interested in leasing a Model Y, but first, she has to check it out. Fortunately, she gets to take a Model Y home overnight. She’s surprised at how much bigger the Model Y is, though it still feels just about the same as the Model 3 when you’re in the driver’s seat.
Learn More About The Tesla Model Y & Rivals:
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How Much Does A Tesla Model Y Cost
When learning about the Model Y or any of the other models currently available, one of the first questions is always, How much does this Tesla cost? And for good reason.
Prices vary depending on what trim you choose, plus a number of add-ons like the aforementioned tow hitch. To give you the full range of what you might pay for a new Model Y, were going to give you the high and low end of both variations.
Note: Tesla prices are perpetually fluctuating, but all prices are accurate at the time of this posting and do not include any destination fees, taxes, or federal tax rebates.
The Long Range Model Y price starts at $54,990 and can be priced as high as $73,990 with all available add-ons. This includes red paint, white interior, 20 Induction wheels, tow hitch, seven seats, and full self-driving capabilities.
The Performance Model Y begins at $61,990 for the bare bones version, and can jump as high as $75,990 including the previously mentioned add-ons as well as 21 Überturbine wheels.
Note this version only comes with five seats.
Cargo Space And Passenger Room
The Model Ys seating arrangement is designed differently than other vehicles. The cars front seats are built on top of a riser thats constructed into the frame. The added height gives both driver and front passenger a view of the road thats much higher than other vehicles. The increased seat height also allows for easier entry and exit into the front seats.
The additional headroom on the Model Y also gives the driver and front passenger an SUV-like experience. Critics and drivers have also lauded the cars vegan leather seating material, a synthetic leather thats very similar to the real thing in terms of touch and comfort.
The vehicle has a luggage capacity of 30.2 cubic feet with all seats occupied, and a maximum cargo capacity of 76.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The space is more than enough for families traveling with vacation luggage and sports equipment. The expanded cargo capacity with all rear seats folded, meanwhile, is ideal for moves and other large hauls.
The rear location of the 7-seater Tesla Model Ys dual-motor powertrain provides even more cargo functionality, since the front hood is freed to be a frunk, or front trunk.
The cars seven-seat configuration is offered in a 2-3-2 arrangement, with both the second row and optional third row capable of folding down to create more storage space.
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First Official Look At The Tesla Model Y Third Row Seats
Tesla surprised everybody earlier today when they added the Standard Range Model Y to the Design Studio after CEO Elon Musk said it wouldnt be offered. Along with the new variant, Tesla also enabled the option to select the 7-seat interior.
Ever since it was announced, questions have been asked about how much space the third row seating will actually provide. Early pictures showed very little leg room, leading some to speculate the third row could even be rear facing.
With deliveries of the first 7-seat Model Ys just 2-5 weeks, we now get our first official look at the third row seats.
UPDATE: Tesla has released the first official image showing the third row.
Story continues below
The photos were revealed on the Tesla Daily podcast hosted by Rob Maurer. According to the video description they are unreleased photos and with the exception of one appear to be from an upcoming support video to be released by Tesla.
In the second photo below we see how the second row seat pushes forward to allow for easy entry into the third row. We also see the third row has adjustable headrests .
We also get to see the third row folding flat, matching what we saw last month Tesla .
The Design Studio also notes the second row seats are sliding. With the ample legroom in the current 5-seat Model Y, this should hopefully be able to provide a little extra leg room for third row passengers.
You can check out the full video where Maurer discusses the photos below.
Features With Tesla Seven
While the included five-seat interior layout of the Model Y includes two front seats and three folding rear seats, the seven-seat option adds a third row with two more folding seats. This means the full cargo length and width are the same with either option, although the standard configuration will have a deeper cargo space. With the optional third row, additional USB-C charging is available. Extra charging ports are a nice convenience and eliminate the hassle of long USB cables trailing around the interior, but they dont add much real value.
More important is the upgrade to sliding second-row seats, with adjustable seat-backs. The standard two-row option has adjustable backs for the rear seats, but they dont allow sliding. Perhaps, this will offer more legroom in the third row. Until more details are released or hands-on reviews are available, this is just speculation. With the third-row seating adding $3,000 to the cost, the total starting price becomes $44,990. The Model Y compares well price-wise to mid to high-end SUVs from traditional car manufacturers but adds the allure of the Tesla brand with its ever-improving cars that are while also saving money and not contributing to climate change with every drive due to the electric motor.
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How Much Does It Cost To Charge A Tesla Model Y
Again, there are a number of different factors that contribute to this price. This includes what state you live in, the level of charging youre connected to, and even what time of day it is.
By studying average residential energy costs in the US from the Energy Information Administration , we can estimate the approximate cost to charge at home on either a Level 1 or Level 2 AC charger.
Tesla Model Y Vs Model : How Do They Differ
While the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 share the same platform, there remains quite a bit of difference between the two in terms of dimensions. Heres a detailed breakdown.
Compared to the Model 3, the Model Y is:
- 2.2 inches longer
- 2.8 inches wider in terms of body width. With mirrors extended, its 1.6 inches wider. With mirrors folded, its 1.2 inches wider
- 7.1 inches taller
- 1.4 inches more front overhang, .2 inches less rear overhang
- 1.1 inches higher ground clearance
- 2.2 inch wider track on base wheels, 2.6/3 inch wider track front/rear on 21 wheels
In terms of interior dimensions, the Model Y has:
- .7 inches more front headroom and 1.7in more rear headroom
- .9 inches less front legroom and 5.3 inches more rear legroom
- Shoulder room is virtually the same
- .4 inches more front hip room and 1.8 inches less rear hip room
- 53 cubic feet more rated cargo volume
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The Tesla Y And Tesla X: Comparable Family Options
You can find all of the specs and information regarding the Tesla X and the Tesla Y here. However, what was important to me was the price, the cost of ownership, and the size of the interior.
After reading all of the studies, the facts, and the specs, I was still interested!
Even though both the Tesla X and the Tesla Y have optional seating for 7 and feature a similar exterior style, they sharply deviate at price and size.
While the Tesla X runs more than $116,000, the Tesla Y runs in the $50,000.00 range. The $50,000.00 price tag of the Tesla Y makes it comparable in price to the Toyota Sienna or the Honda Odyssey.
However, the Tesla X has more than 90 cu ft of cargo space while the Y has more than 76 cu ft of cargo space. So, even though the price tag is sharply distinct, so is the size. And, while both the X and the Y boast an optional 3rd row, the X will have substantially more space.
Tesla Y 7 Seater Is A Disappointing Option For Families
Owning a Tesla is still on our family dream list. It will likely happen someday. But, the Tesla Y 7 Seater will not be the answer to our current family vehicle search.
If you are a family in the market for a comparably priced vehicle that seats more than 3 children and is 100% electric, then the Tesla X and Y are probably your top, if not your only, options.
The Tesla style is yet unmatched. The gas savings are unrivaled. Further, the cost of ownership shaves thousands of dollars off of the purchase price.
However, if you plan to use the vehicle as a family vehicle where your children can not only access but sit comfortably in their seats, then the Tesla Y is not for you.
No matter how much I wanted it to be right for our family, regardless of the specs and reviews I read before test driving, and irrespective of our desire to own a Tesla, we could not make it work.
Yes, our kids could technically get into the vehicle with practice and supervision. Yes, we could technically use it on family trips and daily commuting. However, the style, luxury, and technicalities just wont work for us.
Let me know if you have made the Tesla X or the Tesla Y work for your family!
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