2023 Let’s Get Started!!! I have had a lot of time over the last 12 months to sit back and watch the evolution of the electric vehicle market in Australia start to heat up.
Having been involved with a project last year that asked me to pause my blogging whilst I completed the project, I was able to take stock of what is going to be important to blog about moving forward.
Until now I have been blogging about several things that relate to the tipping point of the ability to move towards electrification, cars and many others things.
It would seem now that that process is well underway, and I need to adapt to this change and now focus on what is important to the people buying the new cars, the evolving landscape of the Australian and global vehicle uptake and the long-term views of what is coming.
Tesla Fanboy
Of course, I am a self-proclaimed Tesla fanboy so I will continue to write about tesla where I believe there is news to share. Just like I wrote about 2022 would be the year of the Model Y I will continue to write about future trends with tesla and the cyber truck especially.
I am also looking at my website to uplift it to be more user-friendly and provide information and access to resources that are relevant to anyone who needs a one-stop place to discover the things that are important when starting out trying to understand what differences there are for electric vehicles to consider when making that shift.
As part of this moving change that I am about to embark on I am always open to collaboration, working with the EV community to continue to grow the conversation, evolve the thinking and look towards the future that we leave behind for our children.
The beginning of my blogging will come in early February.
2023 Let’s Get Started!!! So, keep an eye out and I hope you enjoy my thinking and perspective on the future of the electric vehicle.
It was late yesterday that several Tesla Community members who had ordered Model Y performance started receiving their prepare for delivery soon emails.
Australian Tesla Performance Orders – Coming Soon, It will be wonderful to hear the reviews the insights and the differences between the Model Y performance and the other vehicles in the Tesla Fleet.
The Model Y was a highly anticipated vehicle and has only grown in popularity s more have hit the streets. With the introduction of the Performance model, it is again anticipated to increase interest and continue to drive Tesla’s popularity amongst Australians.
Tesla SEMI Delivered, 5 years ago Tesla held an event that set the tone for what was to come and the disruption they felt would come to the trucking industry.
Now I must preface, Tesla is not the first Electric truck to market, but they certainly are the most interesting. When you consider the power-to-weight ratio and the motor that is doing the heavy lifting (pardon the pun) they are one of the standouts.
Friday the 2nd of December 2022 Tesla presented the production version of the SEMI and delivered them to Pepsi Co and Frito-Lay.
The new SEMI rethinks the way truck drivers interact with their vehicles. As an example, it is possible to stand up in the cabin and change out of a jacket and hang them up before sitting in the driver’s seat to drive.
The SEMI weighs in at 82000lbs when fully loaded and can cover a range of 500 miles (804 kilometres)
With 1 x Plaid motor that drives the truck most of the time and a further two more motors that engage for torque and acceleration, it is a very powerful vehicle. This tri-motor configuration is clutched and geared automatically, which offers a seamless experience for the driver.
Elon Stated in the presentation” It is an elephant that moves like a cheetah”, he went on to state that the vehicle has 3 times the power of any diesel truck on the road today. This type of power and acceleration is unprecedented in the trucking industry.
One comment which caught my attention related to the 1000volt powertrain and how it will be used beyond the Tesla Semi. If I was speculating that might very well speak to either the CyberTruck or another vehicle in the works. Whatever it is it will be impressive for a smaller vehicle to have this type of technology.
Notable Difference.
Tesla Semi Delivered, one notable difference between the existing Deisel trucks and the new Electric SEMI by Tesla is the ability for anyone to hop in and drive. It drives, excluding the size, the same as driving a Tesla Vehicle.
It has a central driving location with two large screens to either side allowing for cameras to see the length of the truck and trailer, navigation, speed gear and other metrics specific to large trucks. (Images Courtesy of Tesla.com YouTube Channel)
Notable Omission
One notable omission related to “Autopilot” and “Full Self Driving” (FSD). Something I am sure will either be in the software or still in development. This is all yet to be confirmed by Tesla but if history is anything to go on there is great confidence that it is on the road map.
A video of the truck driving for over 8 hours was shown and can be accessed on Tesla’s Youtube channel. It demonstrated the ability of the vehicle and helped to show how the vehicle performs under normal daily driving conditions.
During the presentation, Elon and the team made comments that the SEMI had within its technology that is already proven out with Tesla’s Current Fleet. This included
These components have been distributed throughout the Tesla fleet over the years and it is a testament to Tesla that they continue to evolve and improve on their already amazing innovation. To include these elements in the Semi only reinforces the importance of consistency and transferability of the functionality of these components.
Tesla Semi Delivered, Electric vehicles are by their own admission revolutionary vehicles in an industry that has been lagging over the last many years. As we move to a world of electrification and renewable energy there is a need to be able to transfer that electrical current in larger and larger volumes.
Charging Infrastructure
That is why Tesla continues to innovate their charging infrastructure. This is no different for the Tesla Semi. Elon and team introduced the 1MW – DC CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE showing the evolution of V3 – V4 of the Cable technology. This new cable version has shown great improvements in charging times and capability.
It was also announced that this new infrastructure will be part of the CyberTruck configuration, and they will be retrofitting the Charging network starting next year. It would stand to reason that long term this may become the standard for all Tesla vehicles.
For now, though the Semi with such a large battery pack is required to meet the need of the distances to travel for Heavy vehicles it is important to charge in the most efficient way with the least amount of time and this cable helps to realize this ability.
What’s Next
Tesla Semi Delivered, Tesla has made no secret of their Master plan and they again showed this at the [presentation. Now that the Semi is heading into production the focus shifts to CyberTruck.
Not only will CyberTruck be a new evolutionary vehicle, but it will again learn and adopt several innovations that have come before.
The Tesla Semi is a beautiful, well-thought-out vehicle that will influence the view of what heavy vehicles are, can do and deliver in the future. Tesla has already stated it will integrate them into its own fleet and continue to learn and grow their development.
Congratulations to Tesla and the Semi Team on taking the time to get this right. I cannot wait to see how it evolves over the coming years.
The Tidal Wave has arrived. And Australia is riding it all the way.
G’Day
G’Day, hope you are all doing well, this is my first official blog in almost 5 months. I have been blogging on and off this year due to a project I was part of out of my day job. I will fill you in on that later this year.
While I have been away though a lot has changed, especially in Australia.
Political Will
Since the election earlier in the year seeing the federal government change, we have seen several significant moves for Electric vehicle adoption.
Money dedicated to uplifting the Electrical Network
Money dedicated to uplifting the number of Vehicle Chargers
States making significant moves to transition their fleets to electric vehicles
Unfortunately, though we still have a lot of work to do to change the perceptions of those that believe electric vehicles are nothing more than a boon and would never replace their current internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles.
Up till this point we were known as the laggards, the last in line and the underachievers when it came to electric vehicle adoption. The atmosphere of that retroact has shifted and we can see real change in the way Australians are looking towards electric vehicle adoption.
Incentives in a few states have helped to increase vehicle adoption. Unfortunately, they are still out of range cost-wise for an average wage earner.
How things are changing.
Tidal Wave, In March of this year, several changes occurred that helped to entice the uptake of electric vehicles for government and fleet vehicles. This helped to energize the marketplace regarding electric vehicle purchases and increased interest from car manufacturers.
The long-term view is to increase the second-hand electric vehicle car market for when the lease periods end for government vehicles. This will ultimately drive price competition and allow more people to enter the EV marketplace.
EVs coming to Australia
This move has helped to increase the interest of car manufacturers who previously felt that Australia was a less-than-viable market. Wheels Magazine Australia recently published their list of vehicles coming to Australia over the coming years. I have listed them below with the original links – Worth having a look
It seems that Australia has finally woken up to the advantages of owning electric vehicles. The ability to charge from home, the possibilities of the vehicle to grid support and cars that can use their batteries for other purposes like boiling a kettle as demonstrated by UK publication “ThisisMoney.co.uk“
The Tidal Wave of electrification is coming. Australia in previous years has struggled to get electric vehicle purchases by over 1% last year it was more than 3% and growing. This is a small amount when considering the entire vehicle market but Australians want this change and they are showing that through their buying power.
Car companies are now seeing Australia as a viable electric vehicle landscape and are working to deliver more vehicles to meet the demand.
The EV vehicle market can only grow from here and I for one am excited by the possibilities that it provides.
What a Year!!!!! Let me explain, it is very rare that my daytime job and the world of Electric Vehicles cross paths but that is precisely what happened earlier this year.
I work in health care and as part of that, I was given an opportunity to grow my executive leadership capability alongside many other emerging executives. As part of this opportunity, I was part of a project that worked to develop a strategy to implement EV charging infrastructure across the Hospital Health service.
Due to the above clash with my day job, I was restricted to be able to blog for a time. Well, that time has come to an end, and I am back.
In that time so much has happened, changed, and evolved. Australia is now a fertile landscape for EV adoption and growth. I have had many varied conversations over the last couple of months and hope to bring them to you and all over the coming months and years.
So, I will be working to deliver greater insights to the growing Australian EV marketplace and offer my insights into burgeoning ideas, opportunities and of course my take on Tesla and the new vehicles coming our way.
What a Year!!!!! So, sit back, enjoy and be happy for you to bring your comments and opinions my way.
Test Driving Model Y Australia, Last Monday I had the privileged of being able to take the Model Y for a test drive.
I have been anticipating this vehicle arriving in Australia since its first release in the USA over 2 years ago.
Those that follow me on social media ( links below) will know I have asked Elon many times when it was going to arrive. So, when it finally did, I hoped to be at the front of the line to test drive this beauty.
Fortitude Valley Tesla store has been amazing with their customer service and wonderful people. So, it was no surprise to find their smiles and enthusiasm as we arrived to take the Model Y for a drive.
Model Y
Rearview Model Y Trunk Open
The vehicle was a White exterior and Black interior Rear wheel drive.
At first glance, you would be forgiven for thinking it is just a bigger Model 3. This is a good way to introduce people to the idea of the vehicle. Tesla would tell you it is an SUV with wonderful features for the Australian public.
My view is that the Vehicle will resonate with the Australian psyche of car buyers due to several features not found on the Model 3.
Height
The first thing I did notice about the Model Y having owned and driven a Model 3 for a while is the entry into the Vehicle is a more enjoyable process. I am just shy of 6 feet and getting into the Model 3 I feel like I am hoping into a high-end sports car.
With the Model Y, it is as if I am sitting down in a chair at a kitchen table that is plush and comfortable. The drop is not as far.
As has been mentioned many times, the Model Y and Model 3 share about 70% of the parts. So, the interior cabin is very familiar to Model 3 Owners.
Sitting in the driver’s seat there is the instant feeling of sitting higher in the vehicle. The elevation is not dramatic but is very noticeable both stationery and driving.
Cabin
Looking around the cabin the large expanse of glass as a single pane making up the roof is just spectacular. The extra height of the vehicle with the elevated seating position makes the cabin feel very spacious not to mention the leg height and room more expansive.
One notable difference from the Model Y to the Model 3 is the lining of the door pockets. They are lined with a plush material that seems to assist with reducing noise. They are also deeper than Model 3.
Trunk (Boot)
The back of the vehicle is where the most difference is placed. The introduction of the hatchback increases the ability to access the vast storage area that can be created. The introduction of back seat releases in the trunk(boot) area and the 40/20/40 back seat split give fantastic versatility to the storage capacity of the vehicle.
This alone is a win for families and owners of pets.
One other feature of the vehicles that have had a subtle change is the size of the under-boot storage and the frunk. The underfoot storage is vast and holds large items.
Furthermore, there is an additional storage compartment at the back of the back seats that is good for the storage of excess cables and tools.
The introduction of two side pockets in the (trunk(boot) also increases the storage capabilities of the vehicle.
The frunk has a deeper profile and a new additional seal that is attached to the underside of the bonnet.
Model Y driving.
As we left the Fortitude valley store to take the Model Y for a test drive you instantly feel the height and size of the vehicle. It feels solid and safe.
It provides a wonderful ride height that allows for a greater view of the surroundings.
The familiar driving experience as compared to the model 3 is instant. It makes you feel at ease so you can focus on the driving experience rather than trying to figure out locations of speed and gears and the like.
If I was a new user of the vehicle and this was my first time driving, I would recommend the Tesla staff to walk you through the central console thoroughly. This will give you a greater understanding before you start to drive.
As a Model 3 owner, the experience of the central console was easy to navigate.
Driving Experience
The vehicle responded just as you would expect with grace and poise.
The rear-wheel-drive pushing a heavier vehicle takes a few seconds longer to get to 0-60 km/hr. speed. This is a more reasonable take-off for families as it reflects current vehicle take-off speeds. However, it still has the speed when you need it.
The responsiveness of the vehicle is to Tesla’s standard and does not disappoint.
Side Mirrors
The side mirrors are slightly larger and really give a great visual range of other vehicles around you as you drive and when reversing.
Rear Window
If I had to pick one feature that initially seemed a problem, but over time would be able to adjust to is the visibility out the back window when looking through the rear-view mirror. The narrow perspective that is seen through this view at first does not provide as much visual range as the Model 3 or any other vehicle that I have driven both in the past and present.
However, with the larger side mirrors and the safety features of the vehicle, I believe this is something that can be managed.
Suspension
A lot of people online have been highlighting the Suspension as being an issue, but my view is it is no different to the Model 3. The ride and comfort of the vehicle both on-road and over bumps like speed bumps were expected with any spring suspension.
Both my wife and I enjoyed the drive for similar and different reasons but ultimately, we believe that this will be a car for Australia.
Back seats
For anyone who has sat in the back of the Model 3 for extended periods of time, it can be quite uncomfortable due to the lack of ability to adjust the seating angle. In Model Y, this is resolved with the ability to recline. I for one love this feature.
Range
Before we purchased our Model 3, we had a long discussion about the range and the need to get more range than less. However, after owning a Tesla Model 3, I can say that if the vehicle is your everyday driver and you use it to get around town, the range of New Model Y’s standard range of 455km (WLTP) is more than enough to suffice any driving needs.
Battery configuration Queries
When talking to the Tesla staff about the long-range and when it might arrive, they made the comment that the battery configuration for the Long-Range and Performance model batteries contained Cobalt technology and not the LFP battery technology.
This may seem not important but what it means is that vehicle is recommended to only be charged 80-90 per cent most of the time and only 100% just before driving long distances.
It is designed to preserve battery and reduce any risks associated with battery life reduction. The challenge is a range, if charging to 80-90% of the battery capacity you are ultimately at a similar range to the standard range model which can charge to 100% all the time. Something to consider when purchasing especially if it is not used for long-distance driving very often.
Features of the central console.
Bio defence mode.
Climate control of Model Y
When the opportunity came to look at the centre console and its features a couple of differences immediately stood out. The most notable was the introduction in Model Y of Bio Defiance mode. This offering was until recently only available in the more premium vehicles like the Model X. Its introduction to the Model Y once again gives credence to my belief that it is the car for Australian conditions.
The Bio defence mode reduces the particulates in the air of the vehicle. So high pollen counts at certain times of the year when we have bushfires and removal of exhaust fumes from the air as well. It is a piece of mind feature that when used can be very effective.
FSD computer
One feature which I do not own is the FSD upgrade. My model 3 has the computer but I have not made the purchase due to cost.
Components
This feature in the Model Y we test drove was able to show the EAP features that are available. Self-parking was the main feature that was shown to us. Unfortunately, we were not able to test auto lane change and smart summon but it was interesting to try the self-parking and have it work seamlessly.
The Model Y contained the Ryzen chipset which made the central console responsive and fresh.
The premium sound system again was another feature that was new for us to experience. The introduction of the SUB woofer and the extra speakers really made the listening experience wonderful.
Dash height
One feature in the Model 3 that has been a point of frustration for me is the airflow out of the vent in front of the driver. The airflow no matter which location I place the direction continually flows onto my knees in the Model 3. With the dash being higher in the Model Y this is no longer an issue.
Low Voltage Battery type
One feature which has been talked about for a while but is good to see it coming to Australia is the introduction of a Lithium-ion Low voltage battery. This will allow longer times between replacements of the older chemical batteries.
As we returned the vehicle to the dealership, we both felt that this vehicle will not only be a big selling vehicle in Australia but a flagship for the tesla fleet. It ticks all the boxes
Family-friendly
Great storage
Premium sound system
Safety
Storage galore
High ride height
Solid feeling on the road
Great technology
Summary
The test drive just solidified our view that the Model Y will be a vehicle we will upgrade to soon.
The Model 3 has its place and is an amazing vehicle. But for Australian families who can afford the Model Y, it will meet your needs even more so than the Model 3.
It provides a wonderful upgrade to the features of the Model 3 and for any new Tesla owners, it is an experience far beyond the current petrol vehicle.
Is it any wonder why demand is extremely high? Just as I said in my last blog it is the car for the masses.
I am super impressed with the quality of the build and the features that come with the vehicles. My insistence to Elon to get it here sooner did not happen but I and so excited to see these on the roads in Australia.
Image courtesy of Electric Dreams Exhibition website
Australia Embracing Electric Vehicles, This past weekend I had the pleasure of attending the Brisbane “Electric Dreams Exhibition”
On the scale of things, it was a small affair, but it still had some wonderful exhibitors showing off their wares.
Electric Exhibitors
This was not just a car show but an electric show with vehicles of all kinds. Electric cars all the way down to skateboards and it had something for the young at heart to the wise and passionate.
I had the pleasure of talking with several of the exhibitors asking about their electric scooters and electric bikes and understanding the advantages and specifications of each. They were so friendly and open to discussing the amazing selection and the variety of what they each could do.
Scotter Hut
I spoke with the team from Scooter Hut a local Brisbane-based company who was extremely knowledgeable about the scooters highlighting features and comparisons between each variety.
There was no hard sell it was sharing, understanding and knowledge about the vehicles themselves. Quite refreshing to find someone with such a depth of knowledge that they can talk to.
They had 4-5 main scooters on display, and all were for different needs and age groups. The pricing was reasonable and the distance for each was comparable to most scooters on the market.
Retrofit
A unique feature of this electric vehicle show was the retrofit vehicles that had electric motor conversions of older classic petrol vehicles. With just over $10000 dollars it is possible to get the basic kit to convert an older vehicle.
Quite a reasonable price in comparison to current new Electric Vehicle costs which are significantly higher. It is wonderful to see such ingenuity and passion for electrification while still having the ability to love classic cars.
But it would not be an electric exhibition without the latest and greatest vehicles.
As you would expect Tesla had a stand and with it came several vehicles. On display were two Model 3’s. One “Standard Range” and the other a “Long Range”.
Tesla Display
However, the cherry on top was the latest Model Y.
Model Y was the star of the show with most of the attention going to it. Many people were asking lots of questions and exploring the vehicle for its wonderful features and specs.
Rear view of Model Y
I still hold true that this vehicle is the best choice for the Australian market. A large family car that just has the features everyone is looking for with the special technology and ecosystem of Tesla.
Tesla was not the only car company on show, polestar had a centre stage with tier Polestar 2. It was again a very popular vehicle to see. As this was the first time, I had seen the interior it was representative of the quality that the outside belies.
The multiple screens for the driver and the display that is fresh and nuanced. I love the seat belts being yellow a simple thing, but I really like it and would love to see other car companies follow suit.
Polestar2 Specs
I do however have a couple of negative observations. The air vents are a little too retro for me, a big silver vent with a turning knob seems a little outdated and would age very quickly. The back seat leg room seemed a little short as well.
Other than that, it was a well put together thought-out refined vehicle.
Not formally on display but a booth owner who was selling towbar retrofits for Tesla had an EV6 on display parked next to their booth.
Again, it is the first time seeing the interior up close and I was pleasantly surprised. The exterior of the vehicle is surprisingly appealing. It has some wonderful curves and features that draw the eyes.
The dual display seems to be extremely functional especially with the angle more towards the driver. The car offered a lot more space than expected and the interior is well-appointed and refined.
KIA EV 6 Interior
It seems that the next generation of electric vehicles is hitting the market in all the right places.
I did also get the pleasure of seeing the Lexus Electric vehicle. Unfortunately, I did not get any photos, however, I was less than impressed as the number of buttons and their placement in the vehicle was messy and unusual.
It seems that the thinking for this vehicle was targeted to a specific audience and not to the mass market. Probably not surprising considering that the cost of Lexus vehicles is quite high.
However, it is great to see that more and more companies are heading down this road.
Chargers
Most of us have heard of tritium the manufacturer that builds some amazing charging infrastructure.
We have also heard of charge fox, RACQ, EVIE and so many other companies that provide third-party chargers.
But have you ever heard of Noodoe? Neither had I until this show. It turns out they produce charging solutions for the average person. This charging is supported by a dedicated application.
Noodoe charger
They produce both AC and DC chargers and they can all be accessed by a QR code infrastructure.
Noodoe options
Seems like the market for chargers and infrastructure has another player trying to make their way.
It is wonderful to see so many interested parties looking for opportunities in the electric vehicle marketplace.
Summary
Even though it was a small affair, and the number of people did not compare to car shows of old, it is a wonderful start towards building that ongoing relationship with the future customer.
It was a pleasure to talk with and see so many people interested in and talking about the possibilities for electric vehicles from the smallest scooter, to the largest electric bus to the everyday commuter. The future of electric vehicles is bright, and it is wonderful exhibitions like the Electric Dreams Exhibition that help to make the future possible.
Model Y “Surprising”Demand !!! Last week was a moment that I have been waiting for since the introduction of the Model Y in the USA over two years ago. The release of the Model Y to the Australian market.
The release of the Model Y inspired many thousands of Australians to place an order for the highly anticipated vehicle. I have written about it many times in the last number of years that the Model Y will be a game-changer for the electric vehicle landscape in Australia.
The Model Y is the electric vehicle that will appeal the most to Australians.
An SUV that can travel more than 400kms and carry a family of 5 with room to spare.
The appeal of this vehicle has been only enhanced by the fact that in the recent past Australians have come to realize that electric vehicles are the way forward.
They have understood that getting on board now can assist in avoiding rising fuel and maintenance costs.
The Australian population is more motivated than ever.
Demand
So, it comes as a surprise to no one but Elon himself that the demand was a surprise in right-hand drive (RHD) countries.
This demand has been coming for a while now as Model 3 orders had blown out to deliveries of March-May of 2023. So, to see the Model Y hit a similar milestone just a few hours after ordering started would suggest that Tesla had not thought that interest and orders would have been as high as the Model 3. I guess they were wrong.
Globally the Model Y has outstripped the orders of the Model 3 in every market where it has become available.
Even Elon has said on occasion that the Model Y will sell more than the model 3 so to hear him state that he was surprised by the demand is a little odd.
However, on the upside, Elon did mention that they were working on ways to meet the demand.
EV Manufacturers
Model Y “Surprising”Demand !!! But Tesla is not alone as many other manufacturers are also having similar issues.
Recently VW cancelled all its orders for the XC40 (Insert article) in Australia due to not being able to meet demand. Many manufacturers when releasing their vehicles to the market are finding that the vehicles sell almost instantly due to demand.
“Surprising”, is not the word I would have given to the demand in RHD countries.
“Expected” would have been a better comment.
But we are where we are, and we hope that Tesla and other manufacturers can increase demand in the coming months and years.
Enhanced Autopilot
But that wasn’t where the fun stopped. Just yesterday Tesla released almost globally the Enhanced Autopilot suite back to the public.
This middle-of-the-road driver assistance features is a nice compromise for most people and much more attainable than the 10 – 12 thousand price range (depending on the country) of the Full Self Driving Stack.
The autopilot system that is released with Tesla’s, as standard, is extremely well received and functional on most freeways with the driver being at the wheel and monitoring its progress and intervening when required. The enhanced autopilot takes all the great features and adds to them. The subtle differences come in the form of
These features are some of the most requested features that the Full self-driving stack has had for several years.
On several occasions, Ryan McCaffery from the Ride the lightning podcast discussed the viability of reintroducing the EAP. It seems that Tesla has also heard the comments and has now responded to those who have asked and re-introduced the functionality.
These features are in most cases half the cost of the Full Self-Driving stack and will be well received.
Future of Transportation
I am sure the uptake will be high for most tesla drivers across the globe who have wanted the FSD stack but could not justify the cost and now can purchase it and will only assist in keeping the roads safer.
Tesla has led the charge to move the historical views on what a vehicle is into a realm whereby Tesla is considered not just a car company but a technology company.
The future of what transportation is and how it will change our lives is just getting started and I for one am very excited by the changes that are occurring.
Model Y “Surprising”Demand !!! Demand is something that we all will have to manage moving forward. As our appetite for the change to electric vehicles grows. From this point forward we will see nothing but demand as the countries of the world move to a greener and healthier future for all.
Dave
P.S. Unfortunately, there has been a global price rise for Model Y late Friday. This is a small negative in a great ocean of positives. It does however make it harder for the average person to purchase. Hopefully, over time this will change.
Model Y coming to Australia!!! Where were you when they announced the prices for Model Y?
This week we have seen pandemonium online over the release of the prices for the Model Y!
John Law from Chasingcars.com.au revealed that the prices had been released to the Corporate and industry customers this week.
Prices Revealed
The prices and the variants being released included
Model Y Single Motor RWD – $67,990
Performance Model Y AWD – $98,172
Missing from the lineup is the Long Range AWD Model Y variant. This omission is not unexpected due to the fact that the long range variant was not released initially when Model 3 was announced.
These prices are exceptionally good when compared with the current Model 3 prices.
The base Model 3 and the base Model Y are approximately $4000 different based on current numbers. However, we must take these numbers cautiously as we are yet to understand what the on-road cost will be and if the prices of the Model Y include the GST.
March 13 2020 the first deliveries of the Model Y occurred in the USA. Soon it will hopefully be Australia’s Turn.
What exciting news though. Model Y coming to Australia!!! The possibility of a new electric Vehicle coming to the market after such a long wait is truly wonderful.
The Model Y was released in the USA two years ago.
Since its release the Model Y has sold in the USA, China and Europe. The vehicle capabilities have been praised including its spaciousness, versatility and functionality for the average family.
Over the last couple of years those that follow me on Twitter will know, and have probably rolled your eyes, at the number of times I have petitioned, asked, enquired, and suggested to Elon musk (CEO of Tesla) to open the configurator for Australia and our neighbors New Zealand.
Unfortunately, those requests have gone unanswered. With the revealing of the prices this may not be far away.
I have mentioned in my blog “Model Y – 2022 is your Year” , and I still believe this to be true that the Model Y is the perfect electric vehicle for the Australian marketplace.
The higher ride height, the hatch back, the adjustable seats in the back and the ability to have 7 seats are just a few of the features that will appeal to the families of Australia.
Model Y will be well suited to Australia.
If the Model 3 has proven anything, it has established that the Tesla electric vehicles are capable of dealing with the extremes of the Australian environment.
The introduction of the Model Y will only reinforce this belief as it brings with it features that will appeal to the general public even more so.
The current range of the Model Y is based upon current battery technology (i.e., LFP, Nickel/cobalt) technology and not on the new 4680 cell development that Tesla has built and just deployed to their Giga Texas factory. The expected hope is range will become much greater at a lesser cost overtime.
Australia and by extension New Zealand have been anticipating the arrival of the Tesla Model Y for the last two years, it is truly wonderful to see the signs that the arrival is not too far away.
Amazing vehicle and technology
I have owned a Tesla Model 3 for the past 6 months and I can say without any doubt that it is, as will the Tesla Model Y be, the best vehicle I have ever owned and driven.
The features of the vehicle are unexpected and brilliant, surprising, and fun and I have not taken the smile off my face since.
I know that the Model Y will do the same for those of you who are looking for your next vehicle. The Model Y RWD will suit all needs for any family around town, daily and even for trips away. It will provide a one of the safest vehicles on the road with some of the most advanced technology ever conceived in comparison to other similar vehicles on the road today.
Software
Furthermore, it doesn’t stop once you buy the vehicle. With Software upgrades and a very active community of boffins who love to share their passion for Tesla you will be accepted into a community that supports each other and looks towards supporting a brighter future for our children.
Model Y coming to Australia!!! An electric vehicle is more than just a car it is a lifestyle, a passion, and a choice for a better future.
