Tesla Update
Tesla published a teaser on its X channel, hinting at a new product planned for unveiling on October 7. The company showed two short videos: one with a spinning wheel cover, the other with the front of the new model featuring separate headlights. The headlight shape and the announcement timing point to a budget version of the Model Y.
Some speculate that the teaser might be about the long-awaited Roadster, but this is unlikely. Roadster prototypes shown earlier had different wheels and a different light signature.
pic.twitter.com/WscJ610E7n — Tesla (@Tesla) October 6, 2025
pic.twitter.com/KsXDaJgMcJ — Tesla (@Tesla) October 5, 2025
First Prototype Photos
Shortly after the option codes were leaked, a prototype of the simplified Model Y was spotted near Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas. The photos show the absence of the front LED light bar and a simpler bumper without aerodynamic cuts. The rear also lost the central light bar and the separate “TESLA” lettering, making the design less futuristic.
It is still unclear if the panoramic glass roof was replaced with a solid black section. The wheels seem to have been reduced to 18 inches instead of the 19-inch ones on current versions.
@SawyerMerritt spotted an uncovered cheaper Model Y variant driving near Giga Texas pic.twitter.com/Fy6devXree — Ryan Mable (@RyanMable) October 2, 2025
Simplified Design
The first images of the budget Model Y appeared online, sparking discussions about their authenticity. The new model has a significantly simplified appearance compared to existing versions. The front end lost the full-size LED light bar, instead receiving narrow headlights similar to the updated Model 3. The bumper became simpler, without air curtains.
This version will likely be called the Model Y Standard and will be equipped with 18-inch wheels with black plastic covers. The design looks minimalist even for Tesla.
Modest Interior Trim
A number of changes in the interior are reported, although official photos are not yet available. The panoramic glass roof, standard for all Tesla models, will be replaced with a solid roof with textile elements. The steering wheel will be manually adjustable. The second-row seat screen was removed, replaced by manual ventilation controls. The HEPA filter has also disappeared, which is confirmed by data from other sources.
Extract 1: Model Y Standard, Bring Everyone and Everything, Unparalleled Efficiency, Have More Fun, Virtually Low Maintenance, Built for Safety, card_description: For anybody and every drive. Load up your friends and family with seating up to five and bring all… — The Tesla Newswire (@TeslaNewswire) October 1, 2025
The model description on Tesla’s website states that it offers “unparalleled efficiency” and “virtually low maintenance.” The company claims the car does not require oil changes, adjustments, or smog checks, and owners only need to top up the washer fluid and rotate the tires.
Price Question
The expected starting price for the Model Y Standard in the US is $39,990, which is only $5,000 cheaper than the base Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive. Given the absence of many features, such a difference may seem unjustified, especially considering that previously, with the tax credit, the long-range version cost only $37,490.
More affordable Tesla Model Y Standard leaked on the website! Called Model Y Standard, $39,990 starting price, Redesigned front fascia, Single-part headlights, Front bumper camera, No front light bar, No glass roof, New 18” Aperture… — The Tesla Newswire (@TeslaNewswire) October 1, 2025
Creating a budget version of the Model Y could be a strategic move by Tesla to attract new buyers, but there is a risk that the simplified car will not meet expectations. Many believe that to compete with increasingly affordable electric models from other manufacturers, Tesla must offer a more attractive price or retain the key features that make it technological.