Do you know the feeling when a cheaper model suddenly offers more than the more expensive competition? That's exactly what's happening right now with the Model Y Long Range RWD in the USA. The new entry into the revamped crossover lineup costs only 37,490 US dollars after tax credit and offers a whopping 357 miles (EPA) range, 15-speaker premium sound, and plenty of driving fun despite rear-wheel drive. How does this base version compare to the entry-level versions from Giga Berlin and Giga Shanghai? Let's take a closer look at the most exciting differences.
More Sound for the Money
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15 speakers + subwoofer: The US base model adopts the complete premium audio system of the AWD version.
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Europe & China: 9 speakers: Both the Berlin standard Model Y (WLTP 500 km) and the Chinese counterpart (CLTC 593 km) come with a stripped-down system – and without a subwoofer.
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Why this matters: Those who frequently commute or enjoy long road trips benefit from richer sound at no extra cost. Tesla clearly shows here that “base” doesn't have to mean “bare-bones.”
Range and Efficiency
| Variant | Standard Range* | 0–100 km/h | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Long Range RWD | 357 mi / 575 km | 5.4 s | RWD |
| EU Standard RWD (Berlin) | 500 km WLTP ≈ 266 mi | 6.1 s | RWD |
| CN Standard RWD (Shanghai) | 593 km CLTC ≈ 258 mi | 6.9 s | RWD |
| *EPA‑Equivalent rounded |
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The Long-Range Battery of the US model provides noticeably more kilometers without having to rely on all-wheel drive technology.
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Despite a larger battery, the curb weight remains moderate, which benefits efficiency and driving dynamics.
Price Classification
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USA: $44,990 list price – $37,490 after Federal Tax Credit
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Germany: €45,970 for the Standard RWD (Berlin production)
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China: 263,500 RMB (≈ €33,800) for the Standard RWD from Shanghai
When considering additional purchase costs, tariffs, and subsidies, the US model remains the most attractive overall package thanks to the tax bonus – and at the same time offers the largest battery and the better audio system.
Why did Tesla split the equipment?
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Positioning: In Europe and China, the base models serve as an affordable entry point. The Long-Range designation is reserved for all-wheel drive variants there.
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Logistics & Parts Supply: Different supply chains mean different speaker sets. Fremont and Austin apparently directly revert to the premium setup of the AWD line.
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Market Tests: Tesla likes to experiment. The richly equipped US base model could serve as a test run to measure the acceptance of higher-end entry models.
What does this mean for you?
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US Customers currently get the best price-performance ratio in the entire Model Y portfolio. However, if you are considering an import, be sure to note local registration and warranty conditions.
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European Buyers can remain relaxed: With the “Maximum Range RWD” from Berlin (533 km WLTP), a long-distance variant is already emerging – even if it currently only offers nine speakers.
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Outlook: Tesla frequently adjusts features via OTA update. It would therefore be no surprise if future production batches in Berlin or Shanghai also receive the 15-speaker system.
Summary
The new Model Y Long Range RWD from the USA combines great range, convincing sound, and attractive tax incentives – thus outshining the standard variants from Berlin and Shanghai. For those who value long-range electromobility and premium sound, the US base model is currently the insider tip in the Tesla universe.
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