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Tesla has formally introduced an extended-wheelbase version of its best-selling Model Y crossover: the Model Y L. Launched for order in China with deliveries expected shortly, the Model Y L adds a third row and a six-seat layout while addressing previous complaints about cramped rear seating. Priced from 339,000 yuan (about $47,199), this variant aims to broaden the Model Y’s appeal in markets where family-friendly three-row crossovers are highly sought after.
Key Vehicle Specifications
Below are the headline technical details announced by Tesla for the Model Y L:
- Price in China: 339,000 yuan (approx. $47,199)
- Wheelbase extension: +15 cm (approx. 6 inches) compared with standard Model Y
- Aerodynamic drag coefficient: 0.216
- Range: 751 km (CLTC) — similar to the refreshed AWD Model Y equivalent (approx. 466 mi / 750 km CLTC comparable figure)
- Audio: 18 speakers + subwoofer
- Center display: 16 inches; rear screen remains 8 inches
- Maximum cargo volume with seats down: 2,539 liters (approx. 89.6 cu ft)
Design and Aerodynamics
At first glance the Model Y L retains the familiar silhouette of the refreshed Model Y, but Tesla has refined the roofline and added a rear spoiler to optimize airflow. The modifications drop the drag coefficient to 0.216 — impressive for a vehicle that's taller and heavier than the standard Model Y. Those aerodynamic gains help preserve driving range despite the additional mass and length.
Exterior changes
Visually subtle, the Model Y L’s exterior updates are functional: a reprofiled roof, revised tail section, and redesigned rear panel contribute to improved stability at highway speeds and a cleaner aerodynamic profile.
Chassis, Suspension and Safety
Tesla reinforced the Model Y’s structure to protect occupant safety after the wheelbase extension. The company highlighted a new all-in-one die-cast rear panel and expanded use of high-strength steel. Notably, the third row receives integrated head and side airbags, addressing past concerns about safety in cramped three-row configurations.
Adaptive suspension
The Model Y L features continuously variable dampers tuned specifically for this long-wheelbase variant. This adaptive suspension reacts quickly to changing road conditions and driving styles, delivering improved ride comfort, better handling, and increased straight-line stability thanks to the longer wheelbase.
Interior, Seating and Practicality
The central purpose of the Model Y L is to offer genuinely usable third-row space. By extending the wheelbase by 15 cm, Tesla provides meaningful legroom for third-row passengers on longer trips. The car adopts a six-seat layout with second-row captain’s chairs that fold flat along with the third row to create a near-level cargo floor.
Comfort and features
Infotainment gets an upgrade: the central screen grows to 16 inches, and the cabin audio is boosted to an 18-speaker system plus a subwoofer. Third-row occupants benefit from dedicated cupholders and integrated airbags, improving both comfort and safety for families.
Storage and Versatility
When seats are folded the Model Y L opens up to 2,539 liters of cargo space — roughly 20% more than the regular Model Y. Tesla’s lower trunk floor lifts and magnetically locks to the third-row backs to expose a deeper storage bay or to level the cargo area for a flat load surface. These changes make the Model Y L a more practical vehicle for weekend trips, camping, or transporting bulky items while still carrying six passengers when needed.
Performance and Range
Despite being heavier due to the longer wheelbase and added equipment, the Model Y L achieves a CLTC figure close to the AWD Model Y thanks to aerodynamic and efficiency improvements. The enhanced suspension and chassis tuning are designed to preserve the responsive handling Tesla owners expect while improving ride comfort for longer journeys.
Market Positioning and Availability
Tesla launched the Model Y L in China first — a logical move given local demand for roomy, family-oriented electric SUVs. Orders are open in China with deliveries slated to begin soon. Tesla has indicated plans to bring the model to other markets later in the year, including Europe and potentially North America. It remains unclear whether European units will be built locally at Giga Berlin or initially imported from China; that decision is likely to hinge on demand and production logistics.
How the Model Y L Compares
Compared with the standard Model Y LR AWD, the Model Y L offers substantially more interior flexibility and genuine third-row usability without a major range penalty. Against competitor three-row electric SUVs, Tesla’s strength remains its software ecosystem, Supercharger access, and driving efficiency. The Model Y L targets buyers who need family practicality plus EV efficiency, positioning it between compact crossovers and larger three-row electric SUVs.
Conclusion
The Model Y L is Tesla’s answer to customer demand for a more usable three-row crossover without sacrificing range and efficiency. With structural reinforcements, adaptive suspension, improved aerodynamics, expanded cargo capacity, and family-focused interior upgrades, it becomes a compelling option for buyers who previously found the Model Y’s third row too tight. How it fares in Europe and the U.S. will depend on pricing, local production choices, and the reception it receives from Chinese buyers in these early weeks.
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