Tesla Model Y Standard Range makes unexpected return, but there’s a catch

Tesla’s online configurator keeps changing as the EV maker frequently adjusts pricing, delivery times, and the availability of certain versions. Case in point, the Model Y Standard Range was introduced earlier this year but it didn’t take long for the Palo Alto-based company to retire the entry-level trim. During its short time on the market, it got a substantial $2,000 price cut about a month after its launch, lowering the price to just under $37,000.

Tesla then pulled the plug by removing the Standard Range from the configurator, but head honcho Elon Musk said at that time the base Model Y would still be available “off the menu.” In other words, those interested in getting behind the wheel of the cheapest electric crossover from Tesla had to order it either by phone or in person.

The Standard Range’s introduction was considered an unexpected move taking into account Elon Musk claimed the version’s range of fewer than 250 miles would be “unacceptably low.” When it was announced, the lowest-spec Model Y was advertised with an EPA-estimated range of 244 miles.

Fast forward to July, the Model Y Standard Range is back, but not in the United States. It’s showing up in Tesla’s configurator for Hong Kong, meaning it’s available in right-hand drive. This single-motor, rear-wheel-drive version starts off at HK$329,800 (about $42,450 at current exchange rates) and offers 455 kilometers (283 miles) of range in the WLTP test cycle, which typically results in a longer range than EPA.

The Standard Range is HK$48,000 ($6,200) cheaper than the Long Range in Hong Kong and hits 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.6 seconds or 0.6s later than the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive model. Both have a top speed of 135 mph (217 km/h). Stepping up to the Long Range increases the range by 87 km (54 miles) to 542 km (337 miles) per WLTP.

It’s too soon to say whether the Model Y Long Range’s return is only a Hong Kong affair or other markets (presumably the RHD ones) will be getting the cheaper trim. Meanwhile, deliveries in HK are programmed to start in September according to Tesla’s regional configurator.

Source: Tesla