Sligo Weekender

Tesla Model Y – Why settle for anything else?

- By Declan Glynn

FROM a passing glance, it may appear that the Tesla Model Y is merely like an SUV version of the Model 3, but it is in fact bigger than its sibling in every area. However, despite the size difference­s between the Model 3 and Model Y, the ingredient­s are similar.

The Model Y provides maximum versatilit­y for up to 5 occupants and their cargo. Each second row seat folds flat independen­tly, creating flexible storage for skis, furniture, luggage and more.

The electrical­ly-operated liftgate open to a low boot floor that makes loading and unloading easy and quick.

The Model Y is available in RearWheel Drive (Single Motor) and AllWheel Drive (Dual Motor) formats. Thanks to a high-efficiency powertrain, optimum aerodynami­cs and advanced battery technology, the Standard Range Single Motor variant has a driving range of up to 455km, while the Long Range Dual Motor can achieve up to 533km on a single charge.

The Model Y comes as standard with Tesla Autopilot, heated seats and steering wheel, and a premium audio with 13 speakers, a subwoofer and two amps. Autopilot’s advanced safety and convenienc­e features are designed to assist you with the most burdensome parts of driving. Rear, side and forward-facing cameras provide maximum visibility. Tesla

Vision detects nearby cars, helps prevent potential collisions and assists with parking.

Safety is the most important part of every Tesla, and the Model Y benefits from a whole host of advanced safety systems that are designed to exceed safety standards. As a result, the Model Y achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

My Model Y Long Range Dual Motor review car looked terrific in its Deep Blue metallic paintwork and contrastin­g Black & White premium interior.

The elevated seating position and low dash provides the driver with a commanding view of the road ahead. The clean and uncluttere­d interior of the Model Y features a 15-inch touchscree­n, and immersive sound system and an expansive allglass roof that creates extra headroom, and provides a seamless view of the sky.

With its supercar-rivalling sprinting ability, the Model Y Long Range Dual Motor can hit 100km/h from a standing start in just 5-seconds, and it can reach a top speed of 217km/h. It is a capable cruiser on a motorway, and it is supremely refined on the move.

The steering response is quick and direct, while sharp and agile handling characteri­stics provide a dynamic edge to the overall performanc­e.

The Model Y connects with the Tesla mobile app to provide additional features such as remote unlock, remote pre-conditioni­ng, location tracking and speed limit mode.

Recharging times vary depending on the power source.

There are three types of Tesla fast chargers for domestic use (7kW, 11kW and 22kW), all of which can charge a Model Y from empty to full overnight. Meanwhile public Tesla ‘super chargers’ can take the battery from empty to full in just over an hour.

Tesla ‘super chargers’ are also handy to add up to 241 kilometres of range to the 75kWh battery (with a max charging rate of 170kW) in around 15 minutes.

Overall, the Tesla Model Y drives exceptiona­lly-well and the driving range is excellent for an electric car of its size and ability.

The electric motor’s regenerati­ve braking system has the perfect amount of resistance and it is easy to get used to.

Once you become familiar with it, you might only use the brake pedal for emergency use.

The Model Y is enjoyable to drive, and its battery technology is game-changing. Pricing starts at €46,990 for the rear-wheel drive Standard Range variant, with the Long Range Dual Motor (All-Wheel Drive) model priced from €53,890. A 4-year/80,000km warranty comes as standard, along with an 8-year/192,000km battery warranty. Visit www.tesla.com for further informatio­n.

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