Tesla Unveils Model Y L: 6-Seater, With 3,040 mm Wheelbase and Dual‑Motor AWD

For months, EV enthusiasts on platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) have been asking the same question: “When will Tesla finally make a longer, more spacious Model Y with third-row seating?”

The demand was loud, especially from families and buyers in China looking for a roomier Tesla without jumping to the much pricier Model X.

Now, Tesla has finally responded.

The company has officially unveiled the Model Y L—a long-wheelbase, six-seater version of its popular electric SUV, tailored specifically for markets that value extra cabin space and family utility.

Set to debut in China this autumn, the new variant marks a significant step in Tesla’s strategy to meet growing consumer expectations around size, comfort, and versatility, without reinventing the wheel.

What’s New in Tesla Model Y L: Space, Power and Practicality

Extended Dimensions:

• Length: 4,976 mm (about 7 inches longer than the regular Model Y)

• Wheelbase: 3,040 mm (+150 mm)

• Height: 1,668 mm (+44 mm)
• 7 inches longer than a standard Model Y
• 1.7 inches taller than a standard Model Y
• Six Seater
• 3.3 inches smaller than Model X
• New Rear Seat and New light gold paint

Comparing Model YL Lengths to the Model Y & X

These extended proportions allow for significantly increased interior space, particularly in the second and third rows.

Tesla has utilised this room to offer a 2+2+2 six-seat layout, likely with comfortable captain’s chairs in the middle row—a configuration highly favoured in China’s premium SUV segment

Powertrain and Performance:
The Model Y L features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, delivering a combined 340 kW (456 hp), with 142 kW powering the front motor and 198 kW to the rear.

It maintains a top speed of around 201 km/h, and early reports suggest it will achieve 0–100 km/h in approximately 5.9 seconds.

Power is supplied by LG-sourced NMC batteries, offering a CLTC-certified range of up to 688 km.

Design Details:

While the exterior remains largely familiar, there are important tweaks, such as a longer rear overhang, redesigned D-pillars, and a more pronounced roofline to accommodate the third row.

Subtle styling changes, including new wheel designs, unique badging, and potentially a new gold paint option, give the Model Y L a distinct presence.

Why China First?

China remains Tesla’s largest international market, but it’s also one of the most competitive.

The company’s Model Y saw a 17.5% year-on-year sales decline in the first half of 2025, likely due to increased competition from domestic brands such as BYD, Li Auto, Nio, and Xiaomi.

Several local industry leaders have already commented on the launch:

• Li Auto CEO Li Xiang called it “a six-seat pure electric SUV worthy of respect” and noted that it targets the growing family SUV segment priced between RMB 200,000–300,000.

• Nio’s William Li highlighted that the era of spacious EV SUVs has officially arrived.

By introducing a larger, family-focused variant of its existing best-seller, Tesla is aiming to reassert its relevance in a segment that is increasingly defined by space, versatility, and affordability.

Global Availability: What’s Next?

Currently, the Model Y L is exclusive to China, but signs point to a possible international launch.

Sources, including Electrek, have identified internal software code and testing frameworks that suggest the model could eventually make its way to other markets, including North America and potentially Europe. Read: Tesla Officially Enters India with First Showroom in Mumbai, India.

Given Tesla’s growing presence in India, a future version of the Model Y L may also be well-suited for Indian premium buyers looking for a spacious, high-performance EV SUV, though no formal announcement has been made.

Final Thoughts

The Model Y L is less a revolution and more a smart adaptation. Rather than building an all-new platform, Tesla has leveraged its existing Model Y architecture to deliver a product that aligns with market expectations, particularly in China, where passenger comfort, space, and seating flexibility are critical purchase drivers.

With a powerful drivetrain, expanded interior, and Tesla’s ecosystem of software and autonomy, the Model Y L could be a compelling option for families and tech-savvy buyers alike.

Tesla is expected to reveal pricing in the coming weeks, with estimates placing it between RMB 300,000 to 400,000 (approximately ₹34–45 lakh). Bookings in China are expected to begin later this year.