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Elon Musk Warns Tesla’s Six-Seat Model Y May Not Reach US

Elon Musk Warns Tesla’s Six-Seat Model Y May Not Reach US
Editorial
  • PublishedAugust 20, 2025

BREAKING NEWS: Tesla CEO Elon Musk has just revealed that the newly launched six-seat Model Y L may never be produced in the United States. This announcement comes as Tesla introduces the extended version of its best-selling vehicle in China, sparking significant interest among consumers.

On October 4, 2023, Musk posted on X, stating, “This variant of the Model Y doesn’t start production in the US until the end of next year. Might not ever, given the advent of self-driving in America.” The Model Y L, which features a rear row of foldable seats and powered armrests, was priced at $47,200 when it went on sale in China on Tuesday.

This development is crucial as Tesla faces intense competition in the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) market from local giants like BYD, Xiaomi, and Xpeng. With electric vehicle adoption in China significantly outpacing that of the US, these companies are rapidly gaining market share with innovative, affordable models equipped with advanced technology.

The Model Y, currently China’s best-selling SUV, is encountering fresh challengers. Notably, Xiaomi launched its YU7 electric SUV, priced just below the Model Y, and reported 300,000 preorders within an hour of its release. This fierce competition underscores the urgency behind Musk’s comments regarding the Model Y L’s future.

In the US market, where high tariffs restrict the availability of Chinese EVs, Tesla is shifting its focus towards robotaxi and ride-hailing services. The company recently launched its first robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, which is currently invite-only. Musk has predicted that driverless vehicles will dominate the market within the next decade, suggesting that developing traditional models may become “pointless.”

The last new product introduced by Tesla in the US was the Cybertruck, which has faced disappointing sales since its 2023 debut. Looking ahead, Tesla plans to unveil a more affordable model, described by Musk as “just a Model Y,” expected to launch in the fourth quarter of 2025.

As these developments unfold, Tesla enthusiasts and potential buyers in the US are left wondering about the future of the Model Y L and the company’s strategy in the evolving EV landscape. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

Editorial
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Editorial

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