New long-range option for Tesla Model Y hits European market

Tesla is expanding its lineup for the Model Y, adding a new version that focuses on driving further for less money. This new arrival, the Tesla Model Y Standard Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (a bit of a mouthful), is for drivers who want maximum distance without the higher cost of a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system.

This model is a step up from the basic "Standard" version that launched in late 2025. The names can get a bit confusing, but the main thing to know is the distance. The new Model Y Standard Long Range can travel up to 408 miles on a full charge. Compared to the 332 miles offered by the regular Standard model, that is an extra 76 miles of freedom before you need to find a plug.

Last year, Tesla introduced a more affordable entry point for the Model Y by stripping away some luxury features. The "Standard" trim level is easy to spot if you look closely. It uses simpler LED lights at the front and back instead of the light bars found on the more expensive "Premium" versions. Inside, things are a bit more basic, too.

To keep the price lower, the cheapest Model Y also has less sound insulation, which might make the cabin a bit noisier on the highway. Even the suspension is a simpler design. But for many buyers, these trade-offs are worth the savings. The base Standard version starts at $46,850. If you want the new Long Range battery with the same "Standard" interior features, the price jumps to $55,050.

Even though this is a more budget-friendly version of the Model Y, it isn't slow. The car uses a single motor at the rear to push it from 0 to 62 mph in 7.2 seconds. That won't win many drag races against sports cars, but it is more than enough for merging onto fast roads. The top speed is capped at 125 mph.

When it comes to charging, the Model Y Standard Long Range can handle up to 175 kW. This allows drivers to add a decent amount of range in about 20 to 30 minutes at a fast-charging station. Otherwise, this is just a normal Model Y - roughly 187 inches long with a massive amount of storage, with a rear trunk capacity of over 30 ft³. That's exactly what many families are looking for.

By launching this version first in the Netherlands, Tesla is testing how much European buyers value battery size over interior "bling." Spending an extra $8,200 specifically for a larger battery is a big decision. For people who drive long distances for work or take frequent road trips, that extra 76 miles of range might be the most important feature the car has. For others, forking out extra $8,200 for just over 62 miles of extra range might be too much of an ask.

Even with Tesla's falling sales across Europe, the Model Y continues to be a very popular choice simply because it offers so much space. With the "Standard" equipment level now available with two different battery sizes, there are more ways for families to switch to EVs without stretching their budgets on the Premium or Performance models.

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