This week Tesla began importing Chinese manufactured Tesla Model Y’s with a small LFP battery and providing only a single motor (RWD) into Canada.
What makes the Chinese Model Y attractive is that it is $10,000 less expensive, than the regular extended range AWD Tesla Model Y.
We have a video review of our test drive of this Chinese Model Y that you can watch right now, and below are the differences between the two least expensive Tesla Model Y versions:
| Feature | Standard Range RWD | Extended AWD |
| Battery Type | LFP (Iron) | NCA (Nickel – Cobalt) |
| Battery Range | 394 K’s (245 Miles) | 497 K’s (308 Miles) |
| Battery Normal Charge | 98% | 80% |
| Battery Charging in Cold Temps | Slower (+5 mins to Full) | Faster |
| Battery Charge Loss in Cold Temps | Bad | Even Worse |
| Battery Life | Even Longer | Long (15+ Years) |
| Battery Recycling When End of Life | Hard – May Affect Resale | Easy |
| Zero to 100 Kph (60 Mph) | 6.9 Sec | 5.0 Sec |
| Motors | 1 – Rear Wheel Drive | 2 – All Wheel Drive |
| Manufactured In | China | US |
2 Comments
Toby Jacobs · October 30, 2023 at 5:12 pm
Your posts are always impactful and eye-opening. The comprehensive data and the way you highlight the issue is commendable. Thank you for providing such a valuable information! Keep it up. By the way I am a Senior Researcher
Mike J · February 14, 2024 at 11:26 pm
I’ve become an eager follower. The new Tesla Model 3 and model Y are interests. I applaud your dedication and hope they keep up the ace work!