Tesla Model Y owners with recent RWD configuration models will soon have the option to purchase a software-locked range upgrade. This announcement was made by CEO Elon Musk in response to a post by Tesla investor and reporter Sawyer Merritt. Musk stated that the upgrade will be available for RWD units built over the past several months, depending on the type of battery cells included. Although regulatory approval for the range upgrade is still pending, owners can expect to pay between $1,500 to $2,000 to unlock the upgrade, potentially adding between 40 and 60 miles to the Model Y’s range.
Musk also pointed out that the “260 mile” range Model Y units built in recent months could have more range than initially advertised, with the upgrade providing the additional mileage. The range upgrade aims to bring the “260 mile” Model Y closer in range to the newly launched LR RWD trim, which boasts an estimated range of 320 miles per charge. This development will likely prompt discussion and consideration among Tesla Model Y owners and enthusiasts about the value and impact of the range upgrade.