Tesla Model Y spotted testing in India again

Expected to set up shop in India anytime this year, Tesla Motors has yet again been spotted testing out the Tesla Model Y on Indian terrain.

Tesla is expected to begin its services in India with either the Model 3 or the Model Y but with the number of times the Tesla Model Y has been spotted testing, we are pretty much sure that the compact SUV will be the first of many from the American electric vehicle marque. The Tesla Model Y could be the right one to begin with as it is one of the more affordable ones in the Tesla portfolio.

The Tesla Model Y is available in two versions worldwide: Long Range AWD and Performance. 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. 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 4.8 seconds 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.

The more powerful Performance model does 0 to 100kmph sprint in 3.5 seconds and comes with a top speed of 250kmph. But all that performance restricts its total range capacity to 480 kilometres.

The Tesla Model Y is built on the same architecture as the Model 3, and the SUV is available in 5 and 7-seater models across the world. Many of the stylistic elements of the Tesla Model Y are shared with the Model 3, including the general front area and broad LED taillights.

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 is now pressing the Indian government for tax breaks on completely imported electric vehicles and is unlikely to bring the vehicles into the country until the problem is resolved. The government, on the other hand, has no plans to grant any extra tax exemptions, and instead recommends that Tesla build automobiles locally in India, as numerous mainstream luxury carmakers do.

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