Tesla Model Y spied testing in India at OVERDRIVE charging station, launch in 2022?

Tuhin Guha Published: October 29, 2021, 06:49 PM IST

The Tesla Model Y, the SUV derivative of the Model 3, has been spotted testing in Manali. The electric SUV can be seen charging at the charger installed by OVERDRIVE in Manali on its recent OD Electrifies Ladakh campaign. The Model Y seems to be undergoing high altitude and cold-weather testing here before its launch in India by next year.

Tesla India plans, launch date

Tesla seems to now be considering the Tesla Model Y as its debut model for India, after reports emerged of the Model 3's low ground clearance being a hindrance on our roads during testing. The EV pioneer has been lobbying the government for duty cuts on imported EVs to make its debut more streamlined and achieve a more competitive price, although no concrete resolution to this seems to have been reached yet. But with an Indian operation up and running, Tesla should launch its first model in the country by next year.

Tesla Model Y spied India exterior front

Tesla Model Y spied India exterior charging OVERDRIVE

Tesla Model Y range, performance, charging

The Model Y seen here seems to be the lower-spec Long Range version, evidenced by the more efficiency-focused wheels and the less-pronounced boot lid spoiler. The Tesla Model Y is mechanically identical to the Model 3 and is powered by the same 75 kWh battery pack. This version is good for a WLTP range of 507 km and is powered by two electric motors. These put out a combined 441PS and 493 Nm enough to get the Model Y from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.0s and on to a 217 kmph top-speed. The Model Y can charge to 80 per cent through a DC fast charger in up to 30 minutes or to 100 per cent via an 11 kW AC charger in 7.5 hours.

Tesla Model Y spied India exterior side

Tesla Model Y interior dashboard

Tesla Model Y features

The Model Y sold in India should get the upcoming seven-seater option along with the regular five-seater version already available globally. Notable features in the single variant on offer are the 15-inch central touchscreen, powered driver's seat, heated seats, 16-speaker audio system, tinted glass roof, powered and heated mirrors, cabin air filtration system, four USB and 2 wireless charging ports.

Tesla Model Y expected price

The Tesla Model Y should start from around Rs 80 to 90 lakh when it debuts in India, as per the current duty structure. This will put it up against other mid-sized luxury Evs I the country like the Audi e-tron, Mercedes EQC and the Jaguar I-Pace.