Tesla has weathered a few setbacks since its creation in 2003, but the one the manufacturer is facing today is of an unprecedented nature. It is due to the sudden slowdown in the growth of electric car sales, now less subsidized, the arrival of new and powerful competitors, but also to a form of banalization of the brand. Tesla, whose registrations fell by 13% in Europe and 8% in the United States during the first half of the year, no longer so obviously embodies the “cool” of the automotive sector.
The world’s best-selling vehicle in 2023 (1.23 million units), the Model Y has seen its sales plummet since the beginning of 2024, to the point of falling out of the European top 20 sales. As it has become urgent to regain the appeal of its best-seller, Tesla has just launched a new High-Range Propulsion version. The range increases from 450 to 600 km thanks to the increase in battery capacity (almost 80 kilowatt hours (kWh), the charging power increases from 170 to 250 horsepower and the price, with the 4,000 euro ecological bonus discounted, appears at 40,990 euros. Or even 36,990 euros if you opt for a version available in stock.
Made in Germany, this bulky SUV can no longer be satisfied with being desirable; it’s looking for the barge. Powered by a rear-mounted engine, the long-range Model Y offers plenty of space (an 854-litre boot and a 117-litre boot at the front), driving pleasure that shortens distances and low consumption, just under 15 kWh per 100 km during our test. Performance that owes much to the engine management, the style of this car, a little boring but very efficient in aerodynamic terms, and even to the relatively controlled weight (1.9 tonnes).
The Model Y, capable of exceeding 500 km, or even more in the city, takes care of its quality-price ratio, but does not forget the small and large details that contribute to “Teslamania”. We will mention the panoramic glass roof, the elegance of the graphics on the central screen or this discreet audible signal that sounds if you have not noticed that the light has just turned green.
Evolve the exterior style
A Tesla also has firm suspensions when the road deteriorates, the impossibility of adjusting the regeneration system (engine braking, in an electric model), the obligation to go through the monitor, even to open the glove box. Or the impossibility of pairing a smartphone with Android or Carplay.
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