Tesla unveils new premium model Y in Europe, the US and Canada

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EV manufacturer Tesla launched a new version of its Model Y in Europe, the US and Canada on Thursday, after already having introduced it in the Chinese market some weeks earlier. The Model Y is currently Tesla’s best-selling vehicle. 

This new version is an all-wheel-drive long-range one, which will set buyers in the US back by $59,990 (€57,166.0), according to the company’s US website. This is a rise of 25% from the previous version, which can be bought for $47,990 (€45,733.75) in the US. 

In contrast with the previous Model Y versions, which provided the supervised full self-driving software as an optional upgrade, worth $8,000, the new one has made it a standard feature. 

Deliveries for the new Model Y in the US are expected to start in March this year.

The company currently has four versions of the Model Y for its US customers, including this latest one, which is also the most expensive. 

The latest Model Y has a range of features such as a more efficient exterior design, including updated tyres, suspension and wheels.

It also has improved interior features, such as front and rear touchscreens and better signal range and connectivity.

Similarly, the new version has a greater range than previous ones, at 320 miles, or 515 km, along with increased storage. 

Although the Model Y is still Tesla’s best-selling vehicle at the moment, it has experienced a drop in sales in 2024, following lagging electric vehicle (EV) demand globally, as well as rising competition from cheaper Chinese rivals. 

Tesla to recall more than 1.2 million vehicles in China

In a separate development, Tesla announced that it will be recalling more than 1.2 million vehicles in China, because of software problems. This will include both vehicles made in the country, as well as imported ones. The recall will be effective immediately. 

The problem in question includes a reverse current which can negatively impact the power supply component of the vehicle computer’s main board, when it is started. In turn, this can lead to issues in the vehicle’s rear view camera, which can exacerbate the risk of accidents. 

The issues are expected to be corrected with over-the-air (OTA) updates, according to a statement made by the Chinese State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) on its website.

However, Tesla has also said that it will be contacting users whose vehicles cannot be fixed by this method. 

The company will be recalling 335,716 imported Model X and Model S vehicles, as well as domestically manufactured Model Y and Model 3 ones, which have been produced between 16 July 2023 and 14 December 2024.