Tesla has released an enhanced version of its Model Y electric vehicle in China at the same starting price of approximately 263,900 yuan ($37,000). The new vehicle succeeds the redesigned “Highland” Model 3 that debuted in China and Europe earlier this month. Minor updates have been made to the new Model Y, including ambient illumination and redesigned wheels.
The car now accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, which is marginally speedier than before. The updated Model Y features the Hardware 4.0 (HW4) self-driving computer and additional enhancements (NVH reduction). The starting price for the three MIC Tesla Model Y variants in China remains at $36,788 (263,600 CNY).
How does it compare to other electric cars in China?
According to a CNBC report. Last year, the Hongguang Mini, a low-cost electric vehicle, was the most popular electric vehicle in China, followed by more expensive models from Tesla and BYD.
The top 15 best-selling new energy passenger vehicles, including SUVs, in China for 2021 are also listed.
1. Hongguang Mini
2. Qin (BYD)
3. Model Y (Tesla)
4. Model 3 (Tesla)
5. Han (BYD)
6. Song (BYD)
7. Li One (Li Auto)
8. eQ (Chery)
9. Benben EV (Changan)
10. Aion S (GAC Motor spin-off)
11. Ora Black Cat (Great Wall Motor)
12. P7 (Xpeng)
13. Tang (BYD)
14. Ora Good Cat (Great Wall Motor)
15. Nezha V (Hozon Auto)
This list provides a snapshot of the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market in China.
How does Tesla plan to expand in China?
InsideEVs reports that Tesla has announced a $200 million investment to expand Giga Shanghai and recruit 4,000 new employees by November 2021. Based on a new Tesla filing disclosed by Reuters, the automaker has planned another expansion to its EV plant in China. The report also states that Tesla intends to invest up to 1.2 billion yuan ($187.91 million) to increase production capacity at its Shanghai factory, allowing it to hire an additional 4,000 workers at the site.
In addition, according to Carandbike, Tesla Inc. plans to double the number of repair and maintenance shops, add approximately 100 charging stations, and renovate showrooms in China in preparation for the opening of its Shanghai plant.
When did Tesla start operations in China?
Tesla, the world’s largest automaker, began operations in China in October 2019, and opened its first Gigafactory in Shanghai. The factory, located in Shanghai’s Pudong district, initially produced Model 3 and later Model Y. As of July 2023, it can build over 750,000 vehicles per year.
