The new Tesla’s affordable Model Y has been in the news for several days now. Each day passing, new leaks and rumours are popping out, showing the immense anticipation of the new variant. A brand new prototype of a new affordable Tesla Model Y has emerged in Daly City, California, and is attracting attention with its barebones design and low-end design modifications. We also got a glimpse of minor but significant changes -indicating that Tesla was about to make an all-electric crossover more affordable.
Exterior Design: Simplified, Streamlined
Painted Over Grey Trim
Interestingly enough, the familiar grey insert on the rear has been replaced with a painted body panel- remedying the contrasting appearance of current models and simplifying production.
Goodbye, Glass Roof
Perhaps the most costly element to produce, the panoramic glass roof looks to be covered with solid metal or gloss-black wrap. This modification makes assembly easier and reduces costs.
No Split Headlights or Rear Light Bar
The smooth, continuous light bar that runs along the back, a standard feature of revised Model Y designs, is missing in the prototype. Also, no split headlights at the front.
Retained Hardware
Interestingly, the front bumper camera is not removed yet, which indicates that even this stripped model has a chance of supporting such future features as Autopilot or further AI-supported services.
Interior: Functional Over Fancy
Simplified Seating & Trim
Indoors, the prototype appears to be sparse of such high-quality features as ventilated seats. The chairs are probably covered with regular textile or vegan leather- convenient and affordable.
Fewer Conveniences
Such features as rear entertainment screens, additional storage trays, cupholder covers, and coat hooks seem to be eliminated, simplifying the interior and reducing manufacturing expenses.
Minimalist Controls
An established single-stalk turn signal control is still there, maintaining the Tesla minimalist dash design and minimizing the number of components.
The new model Y variant is also expected to come with a 50 kWh battery, which is quite a significant decrease compared to the existing Standard Range, 62.5 kWh. The downsizing is likely to render Model Y accessible to more customers. Although Tesla has yet to officially release the pricing, industry analysts anticipate a significant reduction in the base price, and the model may turn out to be one of the cheapest Teslas available.
Battery packs are one of the most costly components of EVs, and minimizing physical size can save a lot of money. Tesla appears to be willing to take a calculated risk by compromising on range slightly, thereby reducing the overall price of the vehicle.
Tesla’s Q2 2025 earnings call has also confirmed that production of more affordable models began in June. The official reveal is expected by Q4, with deliveries expected before the year’s end.
