Model Y from Tesla under examination - does it live up to the lofty expectations set by its peers?
Revised Tesla Model Y: A Refreshed Electric SUV - Does it Deliver on Its Promises?
In an endeavor to maintain market appeal, Tesla has unveiled a revised Model Y with a new paint job and modified hardware. Our team at ntv.de had the opportunity to test the updated version, dubbed Juniper, equipped with a Dual Motor drive.
First impressions of the revised Model Y may induce confusion, especially from the front, as its continuous light strips deviate from Tesla's established design. Upon closer examination, however, the SUV's rear design and Tesla nameplate help solidify its identity. The touchscreen interface remains a noteworthy feature within the cabin, similar to the Model S facelift, where gear levels are now selected via a touch-sensitive monitor.
In a practical test, the Model Y Dual Motor accelerated swiftly, with a competitive 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.8 seconds, as stated by Tesla. The exact capacity of its battery remains undisclosed, necessitating speculation or reliance on unofficial sources regarding its driving performance.
The all-wheel drive setup delivered a powerful acceleration, but showed signs of limitation by generating a noticeable braking moment when exceeding 200 km/h. Tesla restricts the speed at 201 km/h, leaving room for a possible performance model with higher speed in the future.
On a positive note, the facelift has addressed everyday driving concerns, resulting in improved suspension comfort for a smoother ride over uneven roads. Tesla claims that the Model Y is now significantly quieter, but this assertion is challenging to verify without a comparative test or reference. Nevertheless, the improved suspension intensity undeniably enhances the vehicle's daily drivability.
The turn signal activation mechanism has reverted to conventional steering wheel levers, a practical choice, while wireless charging trays for smartphones remain available albeit redundant since they were previously offered. The Model Y now features attractive ambient lighting, although its reflection in the windshield during dark conditions can prove distracting.
One recurring concern is the continued absence of a fast-charging system based on an 800-volt architecture. As competitors intensify their charging performance, Tesla faces increasing pressure on pricing, with the base Model Y starting at €45,970. Although the range remains impressive, extending to over 2,000 liters of trunk volume, competitors like the Skoda Enyaq, Smart #5, and Xpeng G6 are challenging the Model Y's market dominance with more affordable price points and enhanced charging performance.
Tesla's entry-level SUV still presents a balanced package at a fair price. However, the ever-expanding range of electric vehicles and fading price advantage for Tesla necessitate substantial innovations and model development to maintain the company's position in the market. The Model Y's success remains linked to Tesla's ability to deliver real model advancements rather than cosmetic changes.
- In the manufacturing process, Tesla has decided to use materials from various categories, excluding those related to electric vehicles, as they aim to diversify the materials used in their products.
- The league of electric vehicles (EV) has become competitive, with Tesla's rivals from the automotive industry, like Skoda with Enyaq and Xpeng with G6, constantly refining their products and technology to challenge Tesla's market dominance.
- Finance plays a crucial role in the EV sector, as the cost efficiency of charging infrastructure for EVs, such as that of 800-volt architecture, affects the overall pricing of EVs and can impact the buying decision of consumers.
- The transport industry has been significantly influenced by EVs, as the advent of electric cars has led to a quest for more efficient car-maintenance techniques to cater to the distinctive requirements of EVs.
- Lifestyle choices are increasingly steered by the adoption of technology, with electric vehicles becoming an integral part of contemporary lifestyles, as they offer a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional vehicles, thereby enhancing the 'green' aspect of many individuals' lifestyles.
