Model Y's price tango goes on - Tesla’s eyeing potential move up

A whisper straight from the showroom suggests that Tesla might nudge up the price for its Model Y electric SUV next month in China. According to an anonymous sales representative, Tesla aficionados looking to bag a Model Y might have to stretch their wallets just a tad more - around $1,100 to $1,400 extra, to be exact.

The imminent price hike aligns with the probable conclusion of the current referral scheme. Model Y purchasers, you might want to act fast if you're eyeing that $480 reward currently on offer as the benefit might bid us farewell next week.

And just when you thought the revelations ended there, there's more inside news: the rear-wheel drive version (RWD) of the Model Y could be heading towards its sunset. Initially available solely for the Chinese market, it's quite possible Tesla is rethinking its position on the RWD version. "All good things must come to an end," as they say - but who really said that the RWD was 'all that good' to begin with?

Now, don't let these adjustments overshadow the Model Y's inherent appeal. A little birdie chirps that the Model Y still garners the lion's share of Tesla's orders. What's more, this electric SUV already comes loaded with all the fancy trappings that the newer Model 3 version boasts. Speaking of which, while the Model Y might be seeing a potential price shift, the Model 3 seems rather content with its current price tag of $35,650, undeterred by media speculations to the contrary.

For those of you keeping score at home, the Model 3 2024 version has introduced ambient lighting, seat ventilators, and a rear screen. But when you break down the financials and consider the referral scheme, the difference between it and Tesla's electric SUV is a mere $70 - at least in the Chinese market. Let's be real for a moment - on the glitzy spectrum of electric vehicles, the Model 3 does seem like it's trailing its big brother, Model Y.

Now, in the world of automobiles, depreciation is the inevitable elephant in the room. However, Model Y owners can enjoy a relatively higher residual value. Purchase it for $35,700, and in a year's time, you can expect to fetch anywhere between $30,200 and $33,000 if you decide to sell. In layman's terms? The Model Y's value stands tall even in the face of Father Time.

For those curious about the stats: Tesla reported nearly 65,000 sales in August. Model Y proudly roared with 51,117 units, leaving the Model 3 trailing with 13,577. And September's sales seem to echo a similar tune. The Model Y has consistently outsold the Model 3 in recent months, cementing its position as the favored child in Tesla's electric family.

On September 1 the new version of Model 3 unfurled its pre-sales banner. Marking its first major update in six years, this variant is 12% costlier than its predecessor in China. So much for those earlier reports, which hinted at a cheaper price point of $27,400!

Source (Chinese)