Tesla is preparing a more family-friendly Model Y – report

The Tesla Model Y could become a more practical proposition for families, with reports suggesting a six-seat version of the electric SUV could launch as early as 2025.

ReutersCiting two Tesla sources, the report said that the six-seater Model Y is expected to go into production in China from late 2025. An upgraded five-seat version of the Model Y will debut first in early 2025.

Since all Tesla vehicles sold in Australia are sourced from China, this potentially opens the door for the six-seat Model Y to be offered locally.

While the Model Y Long Range AWD built and sold in the US offers a seven-seat option – for a $2,000 (AU$2,986) premium – the third row is really only for kids, as the SUV is only designed for five seats across two rows.

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According to Reuters’ According to the source, Chinese customers found the cramped third row unpopular, with one of the two informants saying, “It’s not even roomy enough for a large dog.”

It is therefore unclear what six-seat model Tesla could introduce that would appeal to Chinese buyers’ tastes without changing the overall size of the vehicle.

Tesla also sells larger cars made in the United States. Model X with five-, six- or seven-seat options in markets where the SUV is still on sale, and it’s likely the six-seat Model Y will adopt the more upscale ‘2-2-2’ layout of its bigger sibling.

In the six-seat Model X, the two second-row seats are separated to provide enough space for third-row occupants to reach their seats, rather than having to squeeze behind folding and sliding seats as is common in three-seat second-row benches.

The publication added that Tesla suppliers have been told to prepare for a “double-digit increase” in Model Y production in Shanghai, although the factory is currently awaiting approval to expand by 700,000 square metres.

The six-seat option is said to arrive after the highly anticipated ‘Juniper’ facelift, which is due to launch early next year and features design and equipment inspired by the ‘Highland’ facelift. Model 3.

Spotted multiple times, the Model Y Juniper is expected to feature a full-width taillight bar connecting the taillights, as well as slimmer headlights, new wheel designs, interior lighting, and steering wheel-mounted indicator switches.

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