The highly anticipated moment for electric car enthusiasts in Malaysia has finally arrived – the Tesla configurator is now active for Malaysia. Alongside this exciting development, pricing for the Tesla Model Y has also been revealed ahead of the brand’s launch on July 20, 2023. Offering three specifications, here are the prices:
– Tesla Model Y RWD: RM199,000
– Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD: RM246,000
– Tesla Model Y Performance AWD: RM288,000
These prices include SST (Sales and Services Tax). Additionally, there are various upgrade options available at an additional cost, including paint color options, interior choices, wheel upgrades, Enhanced Autopilot, and Full Self Driving. Customers can place an order for a non-refundable fee of RM1,000, with delivery estimated for early 2024.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact SUV that competes in the same category as the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. In terms of electric vehicle competitors, it goes head-to-head with the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz EQC. While Tesla doesn’t disclose battery kWh sizes, the Model Y differentiates itself through its impressive range capabilities. The Model Y utilizes a 400V electrical architecture.
Let’s dive into the specifications of each Model Y variant:
1. Tesla Model Y RWD – RM199,000
– Max range: 455 km (WLTP)
– 0-100 km/h acceleration: 6.9 seconds
– Top speed: 217 km/h
– Comes with 19-inch Gemini wheels, upgradable to 20-inch Induction wheels for RM10,000.
2. Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD – RM246,000
– Max range: 533 km (WLTP)
– 0-100 km/h acceleration: 5.0 seconds
– Top speed: 217 km/h
– Wheels option: Same as the Model Y RWD, with 19-inch wheels upgradable to 20-inch.
– Optional Acceleration Boost available for purchase, reducing acceleration time to 4.5 seconds (pricing not revealed).
3. Tesla Model Y Performance AWD – RM288,000
– Max range: 514 km (WLTP)
– 0-100 km/h acceleration: 3.7 seconds
– Top speed: 250 km/h
– Includes 21-inch Uberturbine wheels, performance brakes, carbon fiber spoiler, aluminum alloy pedal, and lowered suspension.
All three variants feature black vegan leather interiors as standard, with the option to upgrade to black and white for an additional RM5,000. The interiors also include a panoramic glass roof, a 15-inch center touch display, dual wireless charger, 4 x USB C ports, a 13-speaker premium audio system, power adjustable front seats, heated front and rear seats, heated steering, and an AC system with a HEPA filter and Bioweapon Defense Mode.
The Model Y comes with a spacious 854-liter rear boot and a 117-liter ‘frunk’ (front trunk). It is available in five colors: Solid Black (included in base price), Pearl White Multi-Coat, Midnight Silver Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic, and Red Multi-Coat. Additional charges of RM5,000 apply for black, silver, and blue colors, while red incurs a surcharge of RM10,000.
For the Malaysian market, the Model Y is currently only offered as a two-row, five-seater configuration. Some other countries have the option to upgrade to a three-row, seven-seater configuration. Safety-wise, the Tesla Model Y has received a perfect 5-star safety rating from both NHTSA and Euro NCAP, making it one of the safest SUVs in the world.
Many people might wonder about the size difference between the Model 3 and Model Y. While some may assume that the Model Y is simply a taller version of the Model 3, it is actually quite a bit larger. The Model Y is 72mm wider, 181mm taller, and 57mm longer than the Model 3. The wheelbase is only slightly longer by 15mm.
Comparing the Model Y to competitors like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC, we can see that they have similar lengths and wheelbases, but differ slightly in width and height. The BMW X3 is the tallest, while the Tesla Model Y is the widest.
One of the most intriguing features of Tesla vehicles is their Autopilot capability. All Tesla cars come with Autopilot, allowing the vehicle to steer, accelerate, and brake automatically for other vehicles and pedestrians within its lane. Additionally, there are driver assistance features such as emergency braking, collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Customers can choose to upgrade to Enhanced Autopilot for RM16,000, which includes features like Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Lane Change, Autopark, and Smart Summon.
In terms of “self-driving,” Tesla offers a package called Full Self-Driving (FSD) that is currently in Beta. This package provides advanced autonomous driving features. However, it is important to note that active driver supervision is still required, and the vehicle does not operate autonomously yet. FSD will continue to evolve and receive over-the-air software updates. Attaining full autonomy would require regulatory approval.
Other notable features of Tesla cars include Sentry Mode, which uses the vehicle’s cameras as a dashcam, and the Tesla Mobile app, which allows for remote control and monitoring of the vehicle.
Tesla cars in Malaysia are covered by a 4-year/80,000 km Basic Vehicle Warranty and an 8-year/160,000 km Battery & Drive Unit Warranty. The latter guarantees a minimum 70% retention of battery capacity over the warranty period.
To order a Tesla in Malaysia, users can visit the Tesla Malaysia configurator, select their desired model and options, and proceed with the payment. A deposit must be made, which is non-refundable. Estimated deliveries are set to begin in early 2024. Additional costs to consider include a RM500 delivery and administration fee, a RM200 number plate fee, and the RM1,000 non-refundable order fee.
Pricing for the Model Y can vary based on configuration and additional fees. For example, a Model Y with red paint and black and white interior would amount to approximately RM303,000, inclusive of miscellaneous fees.
Regarding financing, Tesla provides a built-in calculator, with AmBank and Maybank as reference banks. The estimated flat interest rate ranges from 2.35% to 2.4%. For a Model Y with a 10% downpayment, the estimated monthly installment is RM5,079 for a 5-year loan and RM3,786 for a 7-year loan.
As of now, Tesla cars in Malaysia enjoy full exemption from import and excise duties, making them an attractive option for buyers. However, it is noteworthy that this exemption may change in the future.
