By Anthony Henson, January 10, 2025
As Elon Musk increasingly becomes a mouthpiece for chaos and a symbol of rage for the disaffected, ruled over by a billionaire class akin to medieval feudal overlords, overworked and underpaid Tesla employees have been working tirelessly to prepare the updated Tesla Model Y.
The updated Model Y was initially leaked on social media, possibly by a disgruntled Tesla employee. Just 24 hours later, Tesla responded by officially unveiling the updates. Judging by Elon Musk’s recent Twitter tirades, The Daily Car Blog is considering declaring war on Tesla—to protect humanity from Musk who is morphing into a feudal overlord.
But let’s not get sidetracked nor blame Tesla employees. Instead, let’s focus on the hard work Tesla’s engineers and designers have poured into the updates. The Model Y now features a wrap-around headlight and LED design inspired by the Cybertruck. At the rear, the taillights merge into a wrap-around seamless cluster, while the rear bumper receives a minor update.
Much like the recent Tesla Model 3 update, the Model Y benefits from improved interior quality and greater efficiency. The 15.4-inch touchscreen now operates with upgraded software and hardware, resulting in faster response times. As with the Model 3, the rear passengers in the Model Y now have access to a small infotainment system.
The AWD Long Range Model Y offers an improved range of 447 miles—a 73-mile increase—while the standard RWD version sees a 37-mile boost, reaching 368 miles. These are official figures; however, current EV technology is about 80% efficient, meaning the realistic ranges are closer to 357 miles and 294 miles, respectively.
Charging rates and speeds remain unchanged, while performance gains show only marginal improvements. The real advancements lie in the finer details, with updates to the suspension, wheels, and tires, enhancing the Model Y to provide a quieter and more efficient EV experience.
Sales of the new Model Y have already begun in the Asia-Pacific region, with first deliveries expected by the end of February. In Australia, the new Model Y starts at $63,000 AUD for the RWD version and $73,000 AUD for the AWD Long Range version, equivalent to approximately £31,000 and £36,000 GBP.
However, the China-made Model Y, when subject to import tariffs, is likely to start at around £48,000 when sales begin in the UK later this year.
