Tesla 7-seater Model Y production raises hopes for NZ market

According to reports from domestic media, Tesla will begin production of a seven-seater Model Y at its Gigafactory in Shanghai this October. 

This move is to cater primarily to the Chinese and European markets, but it may also signal an exciting development for the New Zealand market.

New Zealand’s Model Y units are sourced directly from Tesla’s Shanghai plant, meaning the introduction of the seven-seater option in China could make this model available here. 

This would be a significant addition to Tesla’s offerings in New Zealand, where the Model Y has already garnered a strong following.

The new seven-seater Model Y has completed the homologation process for the European Union market, adding 45 kg to the vehicle compared to the standard five-seat variant. 

While production is slated for October, an anonymous source from Tesla’s Shanghai facility clarified that production has not yet commenced and declined to provide further details on the new variant due to its classified nature.

The Shanghai plant produces the Model 3 sedan and the five-seater Model Y SUV. 

Last year, Tesla launched an updated Model 3, codenamed Highland, and a slight refresh of the Model Y exclusive to China. The latter featured enhanced power, ambient lighting, and a revamped dashboard.

While it’s still unclear if the seven-seater variant will be part of the upcoming Model Y refresh, codenamed Juniper, Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirmed in June that a significant Model Y update is not expected this year. The Juniper update is anticipated to launch in early 2025.

Tesla has previously offered a seven-seater version of the Model Y exclusively for the 4WD dual motor Long Range variant in the United States, where the third row of seats was available for an additional USD 2,000.

With the Model Y SUV continuing to dominate as the best-selling EV in China, selling nearly 300,000 units between January and July 2024, introducing a seven-seater option could further bolster its appeal. The RWD Model Y in China starts at 249,900 yuan (approximately NZD 58,000), making it a competitive offering in the electric SUV market.

As we await confirmation, New Zealand Tesla enthusiasts will be keen to see if this new model variant makes its way to our shores. It could offer more flexibility and options for families needing extra seating.