Tesla begins business in Malaysia with the Model Y EV

Today is a big day for EV enthusiasts in Malaysia, as Tesla has unveiled all three variants of the Model Y for public viewing and ordering at the Centre Court, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Beginning today and continuing through to the end of October, potential buyers can explore the details of the Standard Range RWD, Long Range AWD, and Performance AWD versions between the hours of 10 am to 10 pm daily.

Tesla anticipates that Malaysian customers can expect the first deliveries of the Model Y to start in early 2024. This mass-market electric SUV, Tesla’s inaugural foray into the genre, is ready to take on competitors such as BMW iX1 and BMW iX3, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6 in the Malaysian market. As of now, the Model Y is only available as a five-seater, two-row configuration for this region.

The company abstains from explicitly stating battery kWh sizes, choosing to identify their products by range. The Model Y, functioning at its top efficiency of 250 kW, can be charged for a 120 km journey in a swift five minutes using a Tesla Supercharger.

In regard to Supercharging, Tesla is soon set to launch its first eight-bay Supercharger station out of ten planned for Malaysia, located conveniently at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.

The entry-level Model Y Standard Range RWD, priced at RM199,000, drives power through a single rear motor. This variant utilizes an LFP type battery, boasting a maximum range of 455 km under the WLTP cycle. Performance-wise, it can sprint from 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and has a top speed of 217 km/h. Standardly equipped with 19-inch Gemini wheels, customers can opt for 20-inch Induction wheels for an extra RM10,000.

Next up is the Model Y Long Range AWD, costing RM246,000. It’s fitted with two motors, one for each axle, using an NMC type battery that offers up to 533 km of travel range (WLTP). It can reach 100 km/h from a standstill in 5.0 seconds. For those wanting even more speed, an Acceleration Boost is available for purchase in the app after getting the car.

At the high-end of the spectrum is the Model Y Performance AWD, retailing for RM288,000. Also powered by an NMC type battery, this model trades some range for performance, reaching up to 514 km (WLTP). It boasts an impressive 0-100 km/h acceleration of just 3.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 250 km/h. It comes with 21-inch Uberturbine wheels, performance brakes, a carbon fibre spoiler, aluminium alloy pedals, and a lowered suspension.

All three versions offer black vegan leather interiors, with the option to upgrade to a black and white interior for an additional RM5,000. Standard features also include a panoramic glass roof, a 15-inch central touchscreen display, a dual wireless charger, and four USB Type-C ports. Each Model Y is equipped with a 13-speaker premium audio system with a subwoofer and two amplifiers, power-adjustable heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and an AC system with a HEPA filter system with Bioweapon Defence Mode. Storage wise, there’s an 854-litre rear boot and a 117-litre ‘frunk’.

Colour options for the Tesla Model Y include Solid Black, Pearl White Multi-Coat, Midnight Silver Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic, and Red Multi-Coat. Pearl White is the default option included in the Model Y’s price, while black, silver, and blue will cost an extra RM5,000. Those desiring the Red Multi-Coat will need to shell out an additional RM10,000.

For more info, head over to Tesla Malaysia’s official website.