How different is China's Tesla Model YL from the Model Y and Model X?

globalchinaev

3 days ago
How different is China's Tesla Model YL from the Model Y and Model X?

Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) is preparing to introduce the Model YL to the Chinese market, a new variant that appeared on China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) website with a projected launch in the September-October 2025 timeframe.

This model aims to offer expanded interior space, notably featuring a six-seat configuration, and sits distinctly within Tesla's SUV portfolio alongside the current Model Y and Model X.

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The Model YL exhibits specific dimensions and powertrain characteristics from the Model Y measuring 4976 mm long, 1920 mm wide, and 1668 mm high, with a wheelbase of 3040 mm.

It features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, with a 142 kW (190 hp) front motor and a 198 kW (265 hp) rear motor, combining for a total power output of 340 kW (456 hp). Its maximum speed is listed at 201 km/h.

The vehicle has a curb weight of 2088 kg. It will feature a 6-seat configuration. Specific CLTC range and 0-100 km/h acceleration figures for the Model YL have not yet been formally released but are anticipated with its official unveiling.

Compared to the larger Model X, which measures 5037 mm long, 2070 mm wide, and 1684 mm high, with a 2965 mm wheelbase, the Model YL is slightly shorter but has a longer wheelbase.

The current Tesla Model Y in China measures 4797 mm long, 1920 mm wide, and 1624 mm high, with a 2890 mm wheelbase.

While the body width is 1920 mm, the overall width including external features like mirrors can be up to 2129 mm.

All variants share a top speed of 201 km/h, a front trunk (frunk) volume of 117 L, and a total cargo volume (including the frunk) of 2138 L. The drag coefficient for the Model Y is 0.22 Cd.

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The Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive (750km version) boasts a CLTC range of 750 km (466 miles) and starts at 313,500 CNY (c. $43,700)

It is powered by dual motors (front 137 kW, rear 194 kW) with a combined output of 331 kW (450 Ps). It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.

This version has a curb weight of 1992 kg. It is equipped with a 78.4 kWh battery and has a power consumption rate of 12.2 kWh/100km.

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Meanwhile, the Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive (593km version) features a CLTC range of 593 km (368 miles) and starts at 263,500 CNY (c. $36,700)

It is driven by a single rear motor producing 220 kW (299 Ps). This variant accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds.

Its curb weight is 1921 kg. It uses a 62.5 kWh battery with a power consumption of 11.9 kWh/100km.

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The Tesla Model X featuring the iconic Falcon Wing doors is an imported model to the Chinese market.

The Model X 700km Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive variant is a 5-seat SUV with a CLTC range of 700 km (435 miles).

It delivers a total motor power of 493 kW (670 Ps), enabling a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.9 seconds. Its top speed is 250 km/h. This variant has a curb weight of 2373 kg.

It is equipped with a 100 kWh battery. The rear trunk volume is 2614 L. Its pricing starts at 724,900 CNY (c. $100,900).

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The Model X 664km Plaid Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive variant is a 6-seat SUV with a CLTC range of 664 km (413 miles).

Powered by three motors, it boasts a substantial total output of 750 kW (1020 Ps), allowing it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in a mere 2.6 seconds. Its top speed is 262 km/h.

This version has a curb weight of 2468 kg. It also features a 100 kWh battery. The rear trunk volume is 2577 L. This high-performance variant is priced starting at 824,900 CNY (c. $114,900).

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Reports suggest the Model YL could be priced around 400,000 CNY (c. $55,700).

The Model YL's increased length compared to the Model Y suggests a larger cabin and potentially more flexible cargo space, particularly with its dedicated 6-seat layout.

The introduction of the Model YL comes amidst a rapidly evolving landscape in China's full-size new energy SUV segment, where competition is intensifying from local manufacturers offering both pure electric and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs).

Conversion rate: 1 USD = 7.1812 CNY as of July 21, 2025.