Why Your Tesla Model Y Performance Delivery Got Pushed to 2026: The Federal Tax Credit Rush

Why Your Tesla Model Y Performance Delivery Got Pushed to 2026: The Federal Tax Credit Rush

Hey everyone, DennisCW here! If you've ordered a Tesla Model Y Performance and just got hit with a delivery delay to January or February 2026, you're not alone. Ordering a Tesla can feel like a rollercoaster, and this latest news might have you feeling a bit frustrated. But don't worry—I've got the scoop on why this is happening, straight from a Tesla app screenshot that's making the rounds.

The Shocking Tesla App Message

Take a look at this quote from the Tesla app (shared by a customer):

"Hi [Customer], Cord Madre does not have an all-wheel drive and performance Model Y available for test drive. Currently, our production team is prioritizing customers that stated they are eligible for the federal tax credit as it does expire at the end of this year."

Boom. There it is. Tesla's production team is laser-focused on getting vehicles to buyers who qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit before it potentially changes or expires at year-end. That's a hefty incentive—not everyone qualifies, and Tesla doesn't want any last-minute cancellations.

Why This Makes Total Sense (But Still Stings)

The point-of-sale tax credit is on the chopping block. Right now, you can get that $7,500 knocked off at purchase, but come 2025, it might shift to a tax filing rebate—meaning you'd wait until 2027 to see the money. No wonder Tesla's rushing deliveries for eligible buyers!

I wouldn't be surprised if Tesla ramps up leasing options for the Model Y Performance. Leases often qualify for the credit, potentially pulling in even more customers before the deadline. It's a smart business move to keep the assembly lines humming and avoid order drop-offs.

That said, if your Model Y Performance got bumped? Oof. I get the frustration—especially if you ordered around late September amid the end-of-month rush.

How Would You Feel?

Drop a comment below: If Tesla sent you this message, would you wait it out, cancel, or switch to a lease? I've heard from a few folks already whose deliveries slid into Q1 2026. Share your story!

Pro Tip: Accessorize While You Wait

If you're still set on that Model Y Performance (smart choice—it's a beast!), don't forget the essentials. Gear up with a set of all-weather floor mats from 3W. We've got them in all our Teslas (3, Y, S, X, and now the Performance Model Y too).

• Perfect fitment
• Lifetime warranty
• Use promo code DENNIS35 for 35% off!

Grab yours here (link in video description).

Stay tuned for more Tesla updates, and hit that subscribe button on YouTube for the full video breakdown. What's next for EV tax credits? We'll keep you posted!

-DennisCW