Tesla's Week 29/25 Highlights: Introduction of Model YL, Introduction of New Battery, Transfer of Full Self-Driving, Notable Demo Including a Penis Joke
In an exciting development for electric vehicle enthusiasts, Tesla has announced that the Model Y L, a six-seater variant of its popular SUV, is scheduled for release in China during autumn 2025. The Model Y L, with an extended wheelbase and larger dimensions tailored to the Chinese market, will mark a new chapter in Tesla's expansion in the region [1][2][3][5].
However, there are currently no official announcements or details regarding the availability of the Model Y L six-seat variant outside China. The Model Y L, like its long-wheelbase counterparts in the Chinese market, has been specifically designed to cater to local preferences and regulations [2]. Tesla has only applied for sales licenses and made official filings for the Model Y L in China at this time [1][3].
Elsewhere in the automotive world, Waymo's robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, is making waves. Covering approximately 230 square kilometers, Waymo's service area is about twice as large as Tesla's, which is only available on invitation [4]. Moreover, Waymo's service operates 24/7, unlike Tesla's which takes a break at night. Additionally, Waymo's service in Austin is the only fully autonomous one, unlike Tesla's which requires a passenger on board [4].
In other Tesla news, Elon Musk has hinted at an "epic demo" by the end of the year, but provided no further details [6]. The Tesla design studio was recently visited by Musk, and he tweeted about the demo using the hashtag "@Tesla" [7].
Meanwhile, Tesla has registered a new battery with a higher capacity for several versions of the Model 3 and Model Y in Europe [8]. The new battery pack, consisting of LG Energy Solutions batteries, has a net capacity of 84 kilowatt hours [9]. The Model 3 Performance with the new battery pack will have a WLTP range of 571 kilometers, an increase of 32 kilometers, and the rear-wheel-drive Model 3 will have a WLTP range of 750 kilometers, an increase of 50 kilometers [9].
Tesla's robotaxi service in Austin, initially covering about 50 square kilometers, has been expanded slightly, but it still falls short of Waymo's coverage in the city [4]. A poll suggests that 35.9% of respondents believe Tesla will unveil the long-awaited new Roadster in the upcoming demo, while 38.6% believe the demo will feature the third version of the Optimus robot [10].
As for the Model Y L, it is expected to have six seats in three rows, similar to the Model X [11]. The Model Y L is about 4 centimeters higher and 18 centimeters longer than the regular Model Y, with a wheelbase increase of 15 centimeters [11]. Tesla tested a Model Y Performance on the Nurburgring, suggesting it may be available soon [12].
In summary, the Model Y L six-seater will be available in China by fall 2025, but its availability outside China remains uncertain. If you are outside China and interested in the Model Y with six seats, you will likely have to wait for Tesla’s future announcements, as no international launch has been disclosed as of now.
- The Model Y L electric vehicle, a six-seater variant of Tesla's popular SUV, is scheduled for release in China, marking a new chapter in Tesla's expansion in the region.
- Tesla's arrival in the automotive industry is not limited to electric vehicles, as Elon Musk has hinted at an "epic demo" by the end of the year, although details are scarce.
- Meanwhile, Waymo's robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, operates 24/7 and covers a larger area than Tesla's, setting a high bar in the transportation sector and challenging Tesla's business model.
- In the finance sector, Tesla has registered a new battery with a higher capacity for several versions of the Model 3 and Model Y, which could significantly enhance the range of these vehicles and appeal to consumers worldwide.
- The lifestyle segment also reflects an increasing interest in electric-vehicles, as a poll suggests that a significant number of respondents anticipate Tesla to unveil the new Roadster in an upcoming event, demonstrating the public's excitement in Tesla's products and the future of the automotive industry.