Tesla Model Y Revealed: 0-60 in 3.5 Seconds, 300-Mile Range With Seating For Up To 7

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Tesla just rolled out its latest electric vehicle, the Model Y. The Model Y is a compact crossover that is largely based on the preceding Model 3 sedan. And as you can see by the vehicle’s styling, it looks like a Model 3 from nearly every angle, only with a taller greenhouse and a hatchback instead of a trunk.

Given that its shape is dictated primarily by aerodynamics, it has a sloping roof like the Model X instead of a two-box design like most other crossover utility vehicles on the market. With a drag coefficient of just 0.23, the Model Y is also the most aerodynamic crossover on the market.

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Inside, the Model Y has the same dashboard as the Model 3, which means you get a large, centrally-mounted 15-inch touch display which serves as your point of interaction with most of the vehicle’s functions. The Model Y comes standard with seating for 5, however, you can seat up to 7 with an optional third row ($3,000 option, available in 2021). Tesla says that with the seats folded down, the Model Y offers a generous 65 cu ft of cargo space.

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Moving on to the trim levels, there will be Standard Range ($39,000) and Long Range ($47,000) models; both of which have a single rear electric motor (rear-wheel drive). The Standard Range is good for 230 miles, while the Long Range can hit 300 miles on a full charge. 0-60 times are listed at 5.9 seconds and 5.5 seconds respectively. The Model Y Dual Motor ($51,000) ups the range to 280 miles, and drops the 0-60 time to 4.8 seconds. Finally, there’s the Model Y Performance ($60,000) that keeps the same 280-mile range, but will hit 60 mph from a standstill in just 3.5 seconds.

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According to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, the Model Y “has the functionality of an SUV, but it rides like a sports car.” Given the low center of gravity made possible by the massive battery pack and its relatively low ground clearance (for a crossover), we have no reason to doubt Musk’s claims.
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The Model Y is available for preorder right now; that is if you’re willing to part with a fully refundable $2,500 reservation fee. According to Tesla, the Long Range, Dual Motor and Performance trims will be available in Fall 2020. However, the Standard Range won’t make an appearance until Spring 2021. 

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Given Tesla’s usual penchant for blowing production timelines, we were initially skeptical of these launch dates. But given the parts commonality with the Model 3, maybe the company will for once be able to stay on track.