Karmactive TeamTesla has officially launched its new Model YL in China, a six-seat version of its popular electric SUV with a longer wheelbase and improved family-friendly features. Priced at 339,000 Chinese Yuan (about $47,000), the Model YL costs roughly $3,600 more than the standard Model Y Long Range AWD in China.
The Model YL is noticeably larger than the regular Model Y, measuring 180mm (7 inches) longer, 24mm (1 inch) taller, and featuring a 150mm (6 inches) longer wheelbase. These expanded dimensions create more room inside, especially for third-row passengers.
Inside, the six seats are arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration with second-row captain’s chairs that include electric armrests. Both the second and third rows can fold flat, creating up to 2,539 liters of cargo space. Tesla has added B-pillar and C-pillar air vents to keep passengers comfortable in all three rows – a significant improvement over the previous 7-seat Model Y option that had minimal rear ventilation.
Despite its larger size, the Model YL maintains impressive performance. It features dual motors and all-wheel drive, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.5 seconds – just 0.2 seconds slower than the standard Model Y. The vehicle offers a 751 km (466 miles) range based on China’s CLTC standard, which typically yields more optimistic figures than European or American testing methods.
Other notable features include a black headliner, a new wraparound rear spoiler, and the option of a new Starlight Gold paint color. The third-row seats are heated and power-folding, while the second-row seats reportedly include both heating and ventilation features.
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Tesla’s timing appears strategic, as the Model YL launches just ahead of NIO’s Onvo L90, another three-row electric SUV competitor that has reportedly received nearly 60,000 pre-orders. However, at $47,000, the Model YL is significantly more expensive than the Onvo L90, which costs about $8,000 less.
While initially launching in China with deliveries expected in September, the Model YL may eventually reach other markets. The vehicle has been spotted testing in Germany, suggesting a possible European release, while Australian reports point to a likely 2026 arrival in that market.
This launch comes as Tesla faces increasing competition in China, where Model Y sales decreased by 17.5% in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year. The Model YL represents Tesla’s effort to capture the growing three-row electric SUV segment while offering a more affordable alternative to its premium Model X.
Tesla owners in China may face additional challenges beyond market competition, as regulatory changes could affect vehicle operations. Meanwhile, other manufacturers continue to advance technology that may pressure Tesla to further innovate in areas like charging speed and battery performance.
The growing electric vehicle market continues to evolve rapidly, with Tesla’s latest offering contributing to the ongoing transformation of personal transportation worldwide. The Model YL’s introduction comes amid Tesla’s efforts to counter recent sales declines with strategic product launches and pricing adjustments.
