Source: MIIT

A new Tesla Model Y variant appeared on the latest MIIT catalogue, revealing new photos and technical information on the vehicle.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) is the Chinese government body that reviews and approves new vehicle models, including releasing official photos and specifications before they go on sale.

The most notable feature of this new car is that its body appears to be longer, and the rear bears the designation "Tesla Model Y+." Those familiar with Tesla might guess—this is likely the three-row-seat version of the Tesla Model Y.

Source: MIIT

According to local reports, this new Tesla Model Y+ may begin production in China as early is mid-May with an internal codename of "E80."

A seven-seat version of the Model Y has long been available overseas. In North America, the seven-seat option was offered as early as 2024, though it required an additional $2,000 for customization—about 16,000 RMB—just to get two small third-row seats. As a result, few North American users opted for this upgrade.

However, the 7-seater variant' has been delayed in reaching the Chinese market. However, given Tesla's current demand challenges and the general preference for seven-seat models among Chinese consumers, the timing of a seven-seat Tesla Model Y+ makes sense.

Globally, Chinese buyers have a particular appreciation for seven-seat vehicles to drive the entire family on road trips. Even the midsize SUV Mercedes-Benz GLC and the compact SUV Honda CR-V have a seven-seat design—though such models were discontinued shortly after launch.

Source: MIIT

The extent to which this seven-seater Model Y appeals to Chinese consumers will really depend on the third-row design and the trade-off made with the trunk space. For Tesla, this is still a worthwhile experiment as the Model Y continues to face-off new competing models in China.

At the end of last year, Tesla already hinted at launching cheaper models during a technical presentation—what we refer to as the Tesla Model Q or Model 2. Other rumors pointed towards a “stripped-out” Model Y codenamed “E41”.

Last week, we learned that the Model Y “E41” would likely feature a smaller 50 kWh battery, compared to the entry-level 62.5 kWh battery found in the rear-wheel drive Model Y Juniper.

The E41 would also make significant trade-offs across the vehicle’s interior and exterior configuration to reduce the starting price to as low as 150,000 RMB ($20,600).