A rear-wheel drive version of the Model Y L is coming later this year according to a reviewer who attended a recent Tesla content creator event.
The Key Announcement
The Model Y L RWD release was mentioned during a drive of the current launch series Model Y L, which features dual motors and standard all-wheel drive. The reviewer noted that a rear-wheel drive Model Y L is planned for the future, hinting it could follow the initial launch edition.
This lines up with ongoing speculation about multiple Model Y L trims rolling out after the first wave sells out. The launch series is already nearly gone, with deliveries stretching into December.
Background on the Rumors
The comment came at the 7:09 mark of a review by Miles Per Hour after an event that included MotorTrend and other outlets. Tesla employees were present, which makes the slip potentially credible. It suggests the Model Y L will quickly move beyond the premium launch edition to a more affordable Model Y L rear wheel drive variant.
I've long expected this pattern: start with the high-spec launch model, then introduce the base Model Y L, and eventually shift other trims like the premium and performance versions to the longer wheelbase platform.
What It Means for Buyers
Expect the Model Y L RWD price to land around $50,000 to $52,000, undercutting the current Model Y premium all-wheel drive at $49,990 while offering more interior space. A Model Y L premium all-wheel drive could sit near $55,000.
This makes waiting for the Model Y L trims launch an option worth considering if you want rear-wheel drive efficiency without sacrificing range from the larger battery pack. Performance variants could eventually join as well, benefiting from the bigger battery for extended range.
Check the latest details on the Model Y L RWD release rumors and the Model Y L base launch timeline.
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Bottom Line
The Model Y L RWD release and other lower trims should arrive after the launch series clears, giving buyers more choices at better price points. First deliveries of the initial Model Y L are still on track for late September and October. The shift to multiple Model Y L variants feels like the logical next step for Tesla's lineup.
