Tesla unveils new Model Y Performance

• The new Model Y Performance starts at £44,990
• Colours include Stealth Grey, Pearl White Multi-Coat, Diamond Black, Deep Blue Metallic, Quicksilver and Ultra Red
•  It features a panoramic glass roof

Tesla has unveiled its latest Model Y Performance electric vehicle (EV) that it claims is more efficient, more comfortable, better connected, and safer than before, and has a redesigned interior and exterior. 

The new EV, which Tesla describes as the most “refined Model Y ever”, starts at £44,990 in Stealth Grey, Pearl White Multi-Coat, Diamond Black, Deep Blue Metallic, Quicksilver and Ultra Red, at an additional cost. It features a panoramic glass roof with acoustic glass through the car, an 8” second-row touchscreen, power-reclining second-row seats, autopilot, over-the-air software updates, all of which are standard to Model Y cars. 

In addition to these features, the new Model Y Performance adds: 

• Front and rear fascias upgraded for high-speed performance 
• New 21” Arachnid 2.0 forged wheels with integrated aero covers for improved efficiency
• Performance red brake calipers
• Liftgate with Performance badging
• Puddle lamps with illuminated Performance badging
• Glossy black finished on front fascia, rear fascia and mirror caps
• Carbon fiber spoiler for enhanced high-speed stability 
• First-row Performance seats with powered thigh cushion extenders 
• Carbon-fiber dash and door trim inserts
• Aluminum pedals

Tesla said these updates give the new EV a “distinct look”, making it recognisable on the road, while “staying true to Tesla’s sleek and functional signature design”. 

The EV giant added the front and rear fascias, new rear diffuser and carbon-fiber spoiler work together to create greater downforce, resulting in 10% less drag and 64% reduced lift for a 27% improvement overall compared to earlier Model Y Performance variants. 

The latest model aims to deliver 16% more torque, 32% more peak power and 22% more continuous power. It is also capable of higher thermal and performance limits than the previous generation, as well as quick acceleration and an elevated top speed. 

It also includes an upgraded battery pack equipped with new cells, offering higher energy density with adding weight. It delivers 460HP, accelerates from 0-60mpg in 3.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 155mpg. 

The car also aims to achieve a consumption of 26.07kWh/100mi, unlocking 360 miles WLTP of range to make it one of the most-efficient performance EVs available on the market. 

Tesla has also introduced new adjustable drive modes: 

• Adaptive Suspending: Customisable ride and handling experience through preset damping modes:
• Standard: Offers a relaxed character with elevated comfort while remaining well-controlled and engaging to drive in all conditions.
• Sport: Enhances damping control for faster settling times, strengthening connection with the road during focused driving and improving steering response while still adapting to rougher road surfaces.
• Stability Assist: Customisable Traction and Vehicle Dynamics Controls, creating more freedom and fun for experienced drivers:
• Standard: Prioritises vehicle stability in all driving scenarios.
• Reduced: Prioritises performance and driver enjoyment by minimising traction control interventions during sporty driving. Traction and Vehicle Dynamics Controls remain active as safety nets if limits are exceeded.

Written By

Tamara Birch Newsletter and sponsored content editor

Tamara is a London-based journalist and has written about environmental topics for more than four years. This includes advising small business owners on cost-effective ways, like solar panels and energy-efficient products, to help them become more sustainable.

She has used her journalist and research skills to become highly knowledgeable on sustainable initiatives, issues, and solutions to help consumers do their bit for the environment – all while reducing monthly costs.

In addition to adopting sustainable practices in her personal life, Tamara has worked in the retail B2B space to help independent retailers think about their environmental choices and how they can help improve their business. She now uses this knowledge to help consumers do the same.

Her passion for sustainability and eco-friendly solutions stems from a long obsession with nature and animals and ensuring they feel looked after. In her free time, Tamara enjoys reading fantasy novels, visiting the gym, and going on long walks in new areas.

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In 2020, he covered in detail the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) legislation on sulphur emissions and its effects on the global container shipping market as online editor of Port Technology International.

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