Tesla will hold a new product launch event on October 7th (US time). Speculation is circulating that Tesla may launch the entry-level "Model Y Standard" (internal codename E41). Although full details have yet to be officially released, unmasked photos of the vehicle, official website source code, and configuration information have been leaked, sparking significant market interest.
It has been revealed that the new car, to be named the "Model Y Standard," will be Tesla's lowest-priced SUV to date, targeting the 200,000 to 300,000 RMB (approximately 285,000 RMB) market. The starting price in North America is expected to be US$39,990 (approximately 285,000 RMB), but industry insiders generally believe this price is a temporary stopgap and is expected to be further reduced in the future. If domestic production is achieved, leveraging local supply chain advantages and policy support, the domestic price could potentially drop to the 200,000 to 260,000 RMB range, making it highly competitive.
In terms of exterior design, the new car retains the overall outline of the Model Y, but with significant simplifications to control costs. The front fascia has lost its through-the-lens light strip, returning to a single-piece headlight design. The rear has lost its "TESLA" branding and diffused through-the-lens taillights. The roof is now closed, eliminating the panoramic glass sunroof. The car also features new 18-inch "Aperture" wheels designed to improve fuel efficiency.
In terms of the interior, the new car has undergone significant downsizing. The steering wheel has been switched from electric to manual adjustment; the seats and door panels are now fabric-wrapped, eliminating the leather upholstery. The central control screen is now 15.4 inches (16 inches for the Performance model), and the rear seats no longer have a touchscreen. The rear air conditioning vents are now manually adjustable, and the air filtration system has been downgraded to a standard particulate filter, eliminating the HEPA filter. Furthermore, comfort features such as the sunroof, power-folding mirrors, and ambient lighting have been removed.
It is worth noting that while some auto bloggers speculated the new product might be a "cheaper version of the Model Y S" based on teaser images, others believe the event may also feature other products, such as the next-generation Roadster sports car. However, based on the recently leaked photos of the actual car and the official website code, the possibility of the release of the Model Y standard version is higher.
