Is Tesla’s seven-seat Model Y a candidate for Europe?

Tesla plans to start mass production of a seven-seat version of the Model Y at its Giga Shanghai plant in October, with the updated electric SUV set for launch in the Chinese markets.

However, according to the National Business Daily, the new Model Y variant has already completed homologation for the European Union market. Officially, the news of a European launch hasn’t been confirmed.

Adding a seven-seat option is part of Tesla’s strategy to keep the Model Y on top of global sales charts. The compact SUV isn’t just the best-selling EV worldwide; it shifted more than 1.2 million units in 2023, dethroning the Toyota Corolla last year as the best-selling global vehicle regardless of powertrain.

However, the Model Y faces mounting competition from many new entrants. Tesla’s move to offer a seven-seater version aligns with its aim to heighten its appeal to families and those seeking more interior space.

Launch in early 2025

The new seven-seater will weigh 45 kilograms more than the standard five-seat version, reflecting the added weight of the third row of seats. The updated Model Y, reportedly codenamed Juniper, is expected to launch in early 2025.

As Tesla CEO Elon Musk has clarified that a refresh following the facelifted Model 3, codenamed Highland, will not occur this year for its compact crossover, this timeline suggests the seven-seat Model Y might be an integral part of the updated lineup.

Already offered in US

Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory produces only the five-seat versions of the Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV. A seven-seater version isn’t a complete novelty as Tesla already manufactures an existing version restricted to the US and available only as part of the dual-motor, four-wheel-drive Long Range variant. Over the Atlantic, the third row of seats is offered at a premium of $2,000 (€1,800).

If the seven-seater gets European approval, production will likely occur at Tesla’s factory in Grünheide, Germany. Tesla vehicles made in China incur an additional 9% charge on top of the European import taxes.

Updated like the Highland?

The updated Model Y will likely incorporate many improvements in Tesla’s recent refresh of the Model 3, codenamed Highland. These enhancements include redesigned front and rear fascias, new wheel designs, and updated colors.

Inside, Tesla plans to eliminate steering wheel stalks, upgrade the central infotainment system, and improve the quality of trim materials. The revised Model Y is also expected to feature a softer suspension for enhanced ride comfort, similar to the adjustments made in the Model 3.

Tesla needs to revive its lineup. The top models, S and X, are at a far stage in their lifecycle, and in Europe, the company is outperformed by rivals like BMW. The introduction of the seven-seater might prove worthwhile after Europe barely has car models left with a third row since the heavy and less emission-friendly MPV category got eroded over CO2 taxations.