Source: MIIT

Tesla (NASDAQ) has filed a new Model Y variant in China named “Model Y+,” according to the latest vehicle catalog published by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) on October 9, 2025.

The new model, officially registered as the long-range rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version, is expected to achieve a CLTC range exceeding 800 km (c. 510 miles). This positions it among the highest-range variants currently filed for production in China. and comes just days after the launch of the more affordable Model Y Standard in the United States.

Pricing in China is expected to start around 280,000 CNY (c. $39,300 USD), compared with 263,500 CNY for the standard RWD Model Y and 315,500 CNY for the long-range all-wheel-drive version.

As of this filing, Tesla has not announced an official delivery timeline. However, MIIT registration typically precedes market launch by 1–2 months, suggesting production could begin by late 2025.

Source: MIIT

Historically, Tesla has maintained three core Model Y variants in China — the standard RWD, the long-range all-wheel-drive (AWD), and the six-seat Model YL variant introduced earlier this year.

The upcoming Model Y+ follows this pattern of incremental updates that improve affordability and efficiency. Compared with the existing AWD version, the new model uses a single rear motor configuration, which typically enhances energy efficiency and reduces production costs.

This release aligns with Tesla’s broader efforts to refresh its product range amid growing competition and slower global delivery growth. Domestic rivals such as BYD (HKG:1211), XPeng (NYSE), and NIO (NYSE) have been narrowing the gap highly differentiated products.

The filings show the vehicle uses a 225 kW rear motor — a 5 kW increase over the current RWD model. It is expected to pair with a ternary lithium battery pack from LG Energy Solution, similar to the one on the Model 3 with 830 km range.

Source: MIIT

While detailed computing specifications such as TOPS capacity, sensor suite, and autonomous software stack were not disclosed, the model is likely to carry Tesla’s in-house Full Self-Driving (FSD) software platform and OTA update support as seen on current models sold in China.

The Model Y+ reportedly will have a driving range that surpasses 800 km (c. 510 miles) on the CLTC cycle. Charging details were not listed but the model will likely support Tesla’s Supercharger network and DC fast charging standards.

The design remains largely consistent with the current Model Y, featuring the “Model Y+” badge, and offering 19- and 20-inch wheel options with black trim packages.

The company has been expanding its variant portfolio globally to address sales pressure and an aging product lineup — including recent cheaper Model 3 and Model Y variants in the U.S.

Conversion rate: 1 USD = 7.13 CNY as of October 9, 2025