The US government just released new ratings for electric car mileage and efficiency. This time, it’s the 2024 Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD and Performance versions under the spotlight. The new entry-level RWD version isn’t rated yet, but it might be possible to unlock its full battery capacity later for an extra fee.
It’s important to note that the way the government calculates mileage has changed. This means all-electric cars, including the Tesla Model Y, will have lower range estimates than before. For example, the 2023 Model Y Long Range AWD was rated for 330 miles, but the 2024 version is down to 310 miles.
Here’s the key takeaway: despite the lower numbers, the Tesla Model Y remains very efficient. The Long Range AWD with 19-inch wheels can still go an estimated 310 miles on a single charge. The new Long Range RWD version might even be a bit better, with a range of 320 miles according to Tesla.
The high-performance Model Y takes a hit with the new rating system, dropping to a 279-mile range. This is likely because it has bigger wheels that are less efficient.
The EPA also rates how much energy a car uses. For the Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD, it’s estimated to be 3.5 miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity. This is one of the best results for SUVs, but not quite as good as the Tesla Model 3 which gets 3.9 miles/kWh.
Keep in mind that these ratings are based on a combination of city and highway driving. Typically, highway driving uses more energy. So, expect the real-world highway range for the Model Y Long Range AWD to be closer to 300 miles, and even lower for the Performance version.
One of the biggest advantages of the Tesla Model Y is its price. The new Long Range RWD version starts at $44,990, plus a mandatory $1,640 in fees. The good news is that all versions qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles. That can bring the effective starting price down to as low as $39,130!
