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Prototype Spotted Without Camo Near Giga Texas
A Tesla Model Y Performance prototype has been photographed completely uncovered in the United States for the first time, strengthening signs that a U.S. launch could be imminent. Enthusiasts tracking Tesla test cars note that the same vehicle was seen wearing heavy black cladding at Giga Texas just two weeks earlier, suggesting the automaker has now removed visual camouflage ahead of a domestic rollout.
What the sighting reveals
The uncovered car carried manufacturer plates and still had Velcro ribbons and adhesive traces where protective covers had been attached. Drone pilot Joe Tegtmeyer, who monitors activity around the Austin gigafactory, confirmed the newly exposed vehicle matches the prototype he filmed earlier when it was fully covered. The cleared-up appearance indicates Tesla is confident showing the sportiest Model Y variant to the public, likely because an official U.S. introduction is close.
Why Europe saw production first
Tesla surprised some analysts by starting Model Y Performance production in Europe ahead of the U.S. market. Historically, Tesla tends to sequence new production from Giga Shanghai to Giga Berlin, then Giga Austin and Fremont. Recent examples include the Model 3 Highland, the updated Model 3 Performance, and regional Model Y variants.
Two likely explanations may explain the shift:
- Giga Shanghai was occupied setting up the Model Y L (long-wheelbase) production run; managing both the L and Performance simultaneously would have stretched capacity. The long-wheelbase Model Y is particularly important for demand in China.
- Launching the Performance in Europe provided a halo effect to help revive interest amid softer-than-expected sales there.
Either way, the U.S. launch appears to be next on Tesla's priority list, with American factories still juggling projects including a lower-cost Model Y variant that may be important after federal EV tax-credit changes.
Visuals vs. performance: what may differ by market
Visually, the European and American Model Y Performance cars are expected to be very similar. The variant already shipping to European dealerships makes it natural for Tesla to display the same exterior here without significant changes.
Under the skin, however, differences may emerge. The European-spec Model Y Performance is reported to produce around 460 horsepower from a dual-motor setup—comparable to the Model 3 Performance in that region. In the U.S., Tesla often deploys higher-capacity battery packs and power outputs for locally produced Performance models. For instance, the U.S.-spec Model 3 Performance benefits from a stronger battery configuration that boosts output to roughly 510 hp. If Tesla follows the same approach with the Model Y Performance made in the U.S., expect the American MYP to match or approach that higher figure to remain competitive with the Model 3 Performance.
Market context and timing
Tesla's decision timetable seems influenced by factory workloads, regional demand patterns, and broader market strategy. Key points for readers to watch:
- Production locations: Shanghai, Berlin, and Austin remain central to global Model Y distribution.
- Variant strategy: Tesla is balancing long-wheelbase and performance models alongside an entry-level, cost-reduced Model Y aimed at price-sensitive buyers.
- Sales positioning: The Performance trim serves as a halo product to boost brand image and showroom traffic.
Quote: 'The uncovered prototype likely signals a near-term U.S. debut,' says an industry observer tracking Tesla test vehicles.
Quick highlights
- Prototype was seen uncovered near Giga Texas after previously wearing heavy camouflage.
- European Model Y Performance currently rated at about 460 hp; U.S. versions may receive higher battery and power specs.
- Tesla is concurrently developing a lower-cost Model Y variant for U.S. buyers amid changing incentives.
Tesla's approach—launching Performance in Europe then revealing the U.S. prototype—underscores the flexible production and market strategy automakers increasingly use to respond to regional demand. For now, the uncovered Model Y Performance offers a clear preview of the exterior. Final U.S. specifications, pricing and exact launch timing should become official once Tesla completes validation and announces the model for sale in America.
Source: autoevolution
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