Tesla has revealed a new version of its Model Y crossover in China. It’s called the Model Y Long Wheelbase, or Model Y L. This version is longer than the standard model and comes with three rows and six seats.
It first appeared in China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) filings. Tesla later posted about it on its Weibo account. It’s expected to launch later in 2025, likely around the fall.
Size and Seating Changes
Tesla extended the wheelbase by 150 mm. That means rear passengers now get more space. Here’s how the size compares to the regular Model Y:
- Length: 4,976 mm (up from 4,797 mm)
- Height: 1,668 mm (up from 1,624 mm)
- Wheelbase: 3,040 mm (up from 2,890 mm)
- Width stays the same at 1,920 mm
The Model Y L fits six passengers. The seats are arranged in a 2-2-2 layout across three rows. The middle row now uses two captain’s chairs instead of a bench. This gives easier access to the third row.
The longer wheelbase adds interior space. This includes more legroom in the second row and enough room in the back for two more passengers.
Exterior Updates
Most of the exterior looks the same. One clear update is a “Y” badge placed next to the regular Model Y logo on the rear. There are also changes to the rear doors and windows. These make it easier for people to get into the last row.
The roof is slightly taller to make more headroom for back-row passengers. Overall changes in shape help balance the longer body without changing the core design.
Battery and Motor Setup
There are no big powertrain changes. The dual-motor system remains:
- Front Motor: 142 kW
- Rear Motor: 198 kW
The car uses a lithium-ion ternary battery supplied by LG Energy Solution. It’s the same high-energy-density battery used in the Model Y Long Range variant made in China.
The increase in size adds around 96 kg to the curb weight. That may cause a slight drop in range, but Tesla hasn’t shared official numbers yet.
Interior Layout and Passenger Comfort
The new seating layout aims to fix a common complaint with the older 7-seat Model Y sold in some markets. In those cars, the third row is tight and lacks comfort.
This version focuses more on practicality. The second-row captain’s chairs give each passenger their own space and a clear walkway to the third row. The third row also gets better headroom with the taller roof.
All rear seats can fold flat if more cargo space is needed.
Who It’s For
This Model Y version seems made for families. Many Chinese SUVs offer three rows now, and buyers want more seating without moving up to bigger, more expensive electric SUVs.
At an expected price of RMB 400,000 (about $55,700), it costs more than the regular Model Y in China, which ranges between RMB 263,900 to RMB 363,900. But it’s cheaper than other luxury EVs with similar features, like the BMW iX3 or Mercedes-Benz EQB.
Tesla wants to fill the gap between its regular Model Y and the higher-end Model X.
Where It Will Be Made
The car will be built at Gigafactory Shanghai, where Tesla already produces most Model Y vehicles for China and some overseas markets.
Tesla hasn’t said if this Model Y L will head to North America or Europe. That may depend on things like retooling at other plants and demand in those markets. U.S. safety rules may also require a different version.
Launch Timeline
Here’s what we know right now:
- It’s listed in the MIIT catalog as of July 2025
- Tesla could open orders in China by end of August or early September
- First deliveries are likely around October
The stretched Model Y might only be for China now, but if it does well, Tesla could try something similar in other markets.
Adding a six-seat layout also creates the chance for future Tesla models with flexible seating, possibly even a new product sitting between Model Y and Model X.
Tesla has kept the big features from the regular Model Y, like performance and battery tech, while adding more passenger use and comfort. It’s another step as Tesla tries to hold its lead in the midsize electric SUV space, especially in China where local brands offer plenty of roomy options.
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