Tesla Just Dropped a Family-Sized Model Y – And It's US$63,630!

Forget squeezing the kids into the back of a standard Model Y – Tesla's finally given families a proper electric option, and it’s coming to America with a price tag that’ll make your braai budget sweat. The Model X is getting the chop, but Elon isn't leaving those with a brood stranded. Enter the Model Y L, already a hit in China, and now heading stateside. But is this elongated electric chariot worth the dosh, or is it just another case of fancy tech and a hefty price tag? Let's dive in, bru. ## So, What's the Kak With the Model X Getting the Chop? Look, the Model X had its moments. Those falcon-wing doors? Lekker for showing off at Sandton City, maybe. But realistically, plenty of families bought it not for the theatrics, but for the third-row seating. Now that Tesla’s decided to put the Model X out to pasture, they needed a solution for those needing space. It's a bit of a headache, especially with competition like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9 already offering viable three-row electric options. Ditching the Model X "squeezes out families looking for a third-row solution," according to the reports. It's a risky move, but Tesla seems confident the Model Y L will fill the gap. ## The Model Y L: Six Inches Makes All the Difference Six inches, jislaaik. That’s a significant stretch. And it’s not just about bragging rights. Those extra inches, combined with being two inches taller than the standard Model Y, translate into a *usable* third row. Forget trying to contort your ooms and tannies back there – this is actual seating for adults. The Model Y L’s body is seven inches longer overall, and it provides a roomier experience. It’s not quite as long as the now-defunct Model X, but it should comfortably seat six. The launch edition in the US will even come with captain’s chairs in the second row – perfect for those Little Lord Fauntleroys, as the source puts it. And the space doesn’t stop there. Cargo capacity jumps to 89 cubic feet, a full 12 cubic feet more than the standard Model Y. That's enough space for the entire Checkers No Knives braai kit, plus all the cooler boxes. ## US$63,630 – Is That a Lot of Rands for a Family Car? Okay, let's talk money. The Model Y L Launch Series starts at US$63,630. Now, that’s before import duties, VAT, and the general befokness of bringing a car into South Africa. Realistically, you're looking at a price tag that’ll likely be well north of R1.3 million once it lands on our shores – if it lands, which we'll get to later. That’s a US$12,000 bump over the standard Model Y, and you’re paying mostly for the extra space. It’s a significant investment, especially when you consider you can get a pretty lekker SUV from BMW or Mercedes-Benz for around that price. But, you're getting electric, and you're getting Tesla's tech. ## Space Race: How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition? The Model Y L isn’t playing alone in the three-row electric SUV arena. It’s going head-to-head with the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9, both of which already offer a compelling blend of space, range, and features. The source points out that these competitors are “offering plenty of space and electric range.” While we don’t have a direct comparison of specs here, the Model Y L’s 89 cubic feet of cargo space is a solid offering. But ultimately, it'll come down to brand preference and features. ## Range Anxiety? What You Need to Know About the Battery Tesla claims a range of 325 miles on a single charge when equipped with the standard 19-inch wheels. That's roughly 523 kilometers, enough to get you from Johannesburg to Durban without needing to plug in (assuming you drive like a saint). However, opt for the optional 20-inch wheels, and that range drops by about five miles. The Launch Series comes with the 83-kWh battery pack and dual-motor all-wheel drive, boasting a 3500-pound max tow rating – enough to haul your jet ski to the Durban beachfront, perhaps. ## Will We Ever See This in South Africa? This is the million-rand question, isn’t it? Honestly? It’s complicated. Tesla’s presence in South Africa has been… patchy, to say the least. Load shedding is a major headache, and the charging infrastructure isn’t exactly widespread outside of major cities. Plus, import duties and VAT will make the Model Y L prohibitively expensive for many. It's a tough market, even for a brand as iconic as Tesla. But, if Tesla is serious about expanding its global footprint, South Africa *needs* to be on the list. ## The Bottom Line: Befok or Not Befok? The Tesla Model Y L is a solid step forward for families needing an electric vehicle with space. The extra six inches make a real difference, creating a genuinely usable third row and boosting cargo capacity. At US$63,630, it’s not cheap, and the eventual price tag in South Africa will be eye-watering. However, if you’re committed to electric and need the space, it’s a viable option. But is it a game-changer? Not quite. It's a sensible evolution, filling a gap left by the Model X. It's befok for those who need the space and can afford the premium. Now, speaking of expensive toys… are electric bakkies the future of South African farming? Click here to find out!