The entry of Tesla's Model Y L is expected to intensify competition in China's six-seat electric SUV segment, where Nio and Li Auto have already staked claims.
by CHEN Xiaotong
Tesla on August 19 launched the long-wheelbase Model Y L on its China website, priced from 339,000 yuan (US$46,400) with deliveries scheduled for September.
Buyers are offered financing plans starting at 99,900 yuan (US$13,700) down with three years' interest-free, or 45,900 yuan (US$6,300) down with five years' low-interest loans, along with paint subsidies and charging perks worth about 30,000 yuan (US$4,100).
The Model Y L features a 179mm longer body and a 150mm extended wheelbase, redesigned six-seat layout with heating and ventilation across rows, and a total storage space of 2,539 liters. Equipped with dual-motor all-wheel drive, it accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and offers up to 751 km range on an 82kWh battery.
Rival carmakers have already moved into the segment. Nio's sub-brand Onvo launched its six-seat L90 at 265,800 yuan (US$36,400) on July 31, delivering over 4,000 units in its first 10 days. Li Auto's i8, priced at 339,800 yuan (US$46,500), begins nationwide deliveries on August 20 with pre-orders exceeding 30,000.
With Tesla joining the fray, the once-niche six-seat EV SUV category is becoming one of the most hotly contested segments in China’s premium electric vehicle market.
