Hey everyone, DennisCW here! If you're as excited about Tesla's latest developments as I am, you're in for a treat. A new video has surfaced showing an up-close look at what appears to be the affordable Tesla model we've all been hearing about. Based on what we've seen and what Elon Musk has hinted at, this seems to be a stripped-down version of the Model Y. Let's dive into the details from the spied footage and break down what we know so far.
The vehicle in question is completely camouflaged, making it hard to spot all the nuances at first glance. From the video, it's clear this prototype was spotted in a restricted lot—props to the sleuths who got these shots, but remember, folks, trespassing isn't recommended! After some detective work by the community (and it kinda looks like I was part of the buzz around this find), we've confirmed it's in California. License plate clues and surroundings point right to the Golden State.
This isn't just any test mule; it's packed with changes aimed at making it more affordable. Let's itemize the key differences spotted in the footage.
No Glass Roof: One of the most noticeable omissions. Instead of the panoramic glass roof we're used to on the Model Y, this version has a solid, covered roof. Personally, I can see the appeal—many Model Y owners tint or cover their roofs anyway to block UV rays. If you're not a fan of sunroofs or moonroofs, this could be a win. It might also cut costs significantly.
No Front Camera? Wait, Actually Yes: Initial glances suggested no front camera, but closer inspection reveals it does have one. That's a relief—safety features like this are crucial.
Lighting Simplifications: No rear indirect light bar, and the rear gray insert is replaced by a simple body panel. It looks like there's no front light bar either, and no split headlights (top and bottom). Probably sticking with basic LED headlights to keep things budget-friendly.
From the front shots, the design seems streamlined, with the light bar possibly ending in the middle without any fancy extensions. Overall, it's a more basic aesthetic that screams "affordable entry into the Tesla world."
Inside, the changes continue the theme of cost-cutting without sacrificing too much usability:
Seats and Storage: Regular seats without ventilation. No front storage near the cup holders, and no cover for the cup holders themselves.
No Rear Screen: A big one for families—no rear entertainment screen.
Controls: It retains the screen-mounted gear shifter but features a single stalk for turn signals. That's a nod to simplicity.
These tweaks make sense for an entry-level model, focusing on the essentials while ditching some premium features.
The no-glass-roof decision is the weirdest to me, but it could appeal to a specific demographic—those who prioritize privacy, UV protection, or just don't want the extra maintenance. If you've recently bought a Tesla or are planning to, what do you think? Would you miss the glass roof, or is this a smart move for affordability? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—I'd love to hear from you!
Speaking of Tesla ownership, if you've just gotten your hands on one (or are about to), you might be surprised to learn it comes with zero accessories. Not even a phone mount! But don't sweat it; I've got some must-have recommendations to enhance your experience.
As a Tesla owner myself, I swear by a few essentials to make life easier:
Phone Mount: Keeps your phone secure during those quick accelerations.
Center Console Organizer: Prevents your stuff from disappearing into the abyss.
Invisible Under-Screen Storage Mount: My new favorite for stashing sunglasses or small items discreetly.
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What do you think of this affordable Tesla spy shots? Excited for a budget-friendly Model Y? Let me know below, and stay tuned for more Tesla updates. Drive safe!
-DennisCW
Tesla enthusiast and EV expert. Sharing tips on maximizing your Tesla ownership experience.