Tesla’s extended wheelbase version of the Model Y, known as the Model Y L, has been spotted undergoing road tests in China, fueling speculation about its imminent release.
The prototype was recently photographed in Xinjiang, with images shared on social media platforms such as X. The vehicle’s front and rear remained camouflaged, a standard Tesla approach for pre-release models.
One of the key identifiers linking the sighted prototype to the Model Y L was its unique wheel design. These wheels closely match those shown in China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) regulatory catalog, featuring a distinctive star-shaped pattern not seen on other Model Y variants. The design detail adds weight to reports that the vehicle in question is indeed Tesla’s long-rumored extended Model Y.
Tesla has yet to confirm the launch timeline, but market watchers expect the Model Y L to debut in China during the third quarter of 2025, followed by possible availability in other markets. Though pricing details have not been disclosed, estimates suggest the Model Y L could start at RMB 400,000 (around $56,000), representing a notable increase over the standard Model Y.
The latest sightings suggest Tesla is nearing the final stages of road validation for the Model Y L. As the vehicle continues testing on public roads, expectations are rising for an official announcement that could see the new model target family-oriented buyers seeking more interior space without sacrificing performance.