Tesla Model Y RWD Reintroduced in US with LFP Battery and Revised Price

author: FutureCar Staff    

Tesla has introduced a new base-version Model Y RWD in the US, replacing the standard-range AWD model that was retired last month. The specifications of the new Model Y RWD are similar to the ones sold in Europe and China, leading to speculation that it is most likely built at Giga Texas.

Recently, Tesla made the decision to retire the Model Y AWD built at Giga Texas with a structural battery pack and 4680 cells. The reason behind this decision was not specified, but it is believed that the imminent start of Cybertruck production played a role. The Cybertruck requires a large number of 4680 cells, and Tesla's production yields are not high enough to support building two models with these cells. However, it's worth noting that the Cybertruck uses the second generation of 4680 cells known as "Cybercells." Despite this, the production of Model Y at Giga Texas was still affected. As the battery line at Giga Texas ramped up production, Tesla decided to overhaul the Kato Road experimental production line. The production of the second-generation 4680 cells will begin soon at the battery line near Fremont, causing a three-month production stop starting in November.

When Tesla stopped offering the 4680-cell Model Y in the US, it was expected that the next base Model Y would be a more affordable model built with LFP cells, similar to the one produced in Giga Berlin. Less than two weeks later, Tesla launched the Model Y RWD in the US, which aligns with those expectations. The specifications published by Tesla indicate that this model is very similar to the Model Y RWD produced in Germany.

It makes sense for Tesla to introduce the Model Y RWD in the US considering that Giga Texas already produces the Model Y with front and rear single-piece megacastings and a structural battery pack, similar to Giga Berlin. The Model Y RWD produced in Germany uses a structural battery pack supplied by BYD and features LFP chemistry, making it one of the most advanced in the world. Testers have confirmed that the BYD battery offers outstanding charging performance, surpassing the 4680-cell battery pack used in the Model Y AWD built at Giga Texas. Additionally, the LFP cells can be charged to 100% regularly, unlocking more range.

The new Model Y RWD in the US is priced at $43,990, which is $3,750 less than the discontinued Model Y AWD. It also qualifies for the full $7,500 tax credit. This suggests that Tesla either manufactures the battery pack in North America or imports an LFP pack from China, similar to what was done with the Model 3 RWD built in Fremont. The Model Y RWD has a range of 260 miles (418 km), which is 19 miles (31 km) less than the discontinued AWD model. It also has a slower acceleration, with a 0-60 mph (97 kph) time of 6.6 seconds compared to 5.0 seconds.

This is not the first time Tesla has sold a Model Y RWD in the US. In January 2021, Tesla launched a Model Y RWD with a range of 244 miles for $41,990. However, when adjusted for inflation, the price of the 2021 Model Y RWD is equivalent to $49,285 in today's money.

FutureCar Staff