A new Tesla prototype has been spotted again, sparking speculation among Tesla shareholders. While it is likely just a Model Y, it may be a bit smaller and the upcoming stripped-down, cheaper version.
In recent months, there have been several sightings of what appears to be a Model Y with camouflage around Tesla’s Fremont factory. This has led to speculation about it being the new “affordable” compact Tesla vehicle.
Confusion has arisen in the Tesla community regarding Tesla’s upcoming “affordable” vehicles due to CEO Elon Musk denying a report last year about Tesla’s “$25,000” EV model being canceled. Musk did cancel two cheaper vehicles that Tesla was working on, codenamed NV91 and NV92, which were based on a new vehicle platform reserved for the Cybercab.
Instead, Musk decided to utilize the Model 3 and Model Y production lines, as they were underutilized due to demand issues. These new electric vehicles are expected to look very similar to the Model 3 and Model Y.
The recent sightings of the Tesla prototype have reignited speculation among Tesla shareholders. The prototype looks very similar to a Model Y, but there are discussions about it potentially being slightly smaller.
The stripped-down, more affordable “models” are expected to feature cheaper interior materials, such as textile seats instead of vegan leather, no heated or ventilated seats standard, no rear screen, and possibly no double-paned acoustic glass or a lesser audio system.
The main goal of these new variants is to lower the average sale price to combat decreasing demand and increase the utilization rate of Tesla’s production lines, which are currently operating at around 60% capacity.
If Tesla continues to face decreasing demand, it may find itself in a difficult position and may even have to consider closing its factories. The speculation surrounding the new Tesla prototype continues to grow, and it will be interesting to see how it fits into Tesla’s lineup of vehicles.
