Based on certification documents filed in Europe, Tesla appears poised to reintroduce the Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (LR RWD). This anticipated model may feature a new electric motor, enhanced efficiency, and a range of up to 600 km (373 miles), surpassing the 533-km (331 miles) WLTC range of the current Model Y LR AWD variant.
When Tesla revealed the Model Y in March 2019, it announced plans for a single-motor long-range version priced at $47,000. However, despite raising the price to $48,000 shortly thereafter, Tesla failed to make this LR RWD variant available for order.
Although initially perceived as an ideal offering within the Model Y lineup, circumstances led to its absence, disappointing potential customers. Yet recent developments suggest Tesla might reconsider its stance, at least for the European market.
Documents shared by Tesla insider Julien (@eivissacopter) on X and TFF forums reveal certification for a Model Y LR RWD manufactured at Giga Berlin. However, it remains uncertain whether Tesla will extend this variant to the US market. Furthermore, certification does not guarantee production, as not all certified models reach the market.
According to documents posted on TFF forums, the Model Y LR RWD shares the same battery pack as the LR AWD variant, utilizing LG cells with a 79-kWh capacity. Equipped with 19-inch Gemini wheels and Hankook Ventus S1 EVo3 EV tires, the LR RWD achieves a range of 600 km (373 miles). However, opting for 20-inch Induction wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires reduces the range to 565 km (351 miles). These figures are based on European WLTC ratings, which tend to be more optimistic than EPA estimates.
Technical details disclosed in the certification documents indicate various power levels for the Model Y LR RWD, ranging from 159 kW (213 horsepower) to 255 kW (342 horsepower). Notably, the tested variant delivers 220 kW (295 horsepower), aligning with the current Model Y RWD (standard range) variant. Whether Tesla revises this specification upon production remains uncertain.
Weighing in at 1,959 kg (4,320 lbs.), the Model Y LR RWD is 20 kg (44 lbs.) lighter than its dual-motor counterpart, including the driver. With a top speed matching that of the Model Y LR AWD at 217 kph (135 mph), the LR RWD also incorporates a Hardware-4 Autopilot computer, despite European models retaining Hardware-3.