Tesla Model Y pricing leaks in Australia

We are now one step closer to knowing the price of the upcoming Tesla Model Y, with pricing for the much anticipated nameplate’s entry-level and flagship variants reportedly leaked in Australia.

Numerous outlets are reporting that the entry-level single-motor rear-wheel drive Model Y variant will be priced from A$67,990 before on-road costs.

This represents a relatively mild step up in price on the equivalent single-motor Model 3, which is currently priced from A$63,900 in Australia.

At the other end of the scale, the flagship dual-motor Model Y Performance is said to be priced from A$98,172 before on-road costs. The hefty step up in costs comes with a hefty step up in performance, with the Performance rated to hit 100km/h in just 3.7 seconds.

Converted directly to New Zealand dollars, this gives the Model Y standard range and Performance prices of approximately $69,730 and $107,130, respectively. Although given that the Model 3 line-up starts at a more expensive $72,400 in New Zealand, those prices are unlikely to be reflected here.

What’s perhaps more relevant is the pricing margins. The Model 3 and Model Y standard range variants are AU$4090, or $4460 apart. Apply this figure to the current Model 3 standard range’s pricing in New Zealand, and you wind up with a potential local price of around $76,800 for the cheapest Model Y.

Such a price would see the model slot underneath the government’s Clean Car Discount $80,000 rebate threshold.

According to the news’ initial source, a report by Chasing Cars, the information was shared via a document shared to “industry and corporate customers”.

No pricing for the mid-range Model Y Long Range was noted in the report.

The Model Y represents Tesla’s first entry-level SUV, following on from the larger, more exclusive and expensive Model X. It shares the same platform as the Model 3, but is capable of carrying three rows of occupants.

The Model Y’s launch in Australasia and other right-hand drive markets has faced several delays, most likely due to the international semi-conductor shortage and the Covid-19 pandemic.

The model’s more practical bones have prompted pundits to tip that it will be an even more popular seller than the Model 3. This could spell big news for the motoring industry, given that the Model 3 is the best-selling EV on both sides of the Tasman.