Tesla Begins Production of New Model Y, But Orders Not Yet Open in U.S.

Tesla has officially commenced production of the new Model Y non-Launch Edition at its Giga Texas facility.

However, the automaker has yet to begin taking orders for this version in the U.S. and Canada, leaving many prospective buyers in limbo.

The recently introduced Launch Edition, priced at $60,000, includes all available options, but many customers are now awaiting the more affordable non-Launch Edition, which comes with fewer features and at a lower price point.

Tesla Model Y Launch Edition cost $60,000

The urgency for Tesla is apparent, as there are indications of dwindling demand for the Launch Edition in the United States. Shortly after deliveries began earlier this month, the company reported that it can deliver vehicles in most colors on the same day as the order, suggesting that the order backlog has been significantly reduced.

Additionally, interest in the Launch Edition may be cooling, potentially due to its high price tag coupled with the availability of a less expensive alternative.

In a flyover of the Giga Texas site, observers noted several new Model Y vehicles in production without Launch Edition badging, highlighting a significant ramp-up in regular Model Y production.

While Tesla is actively taking orders for the non-Launch Edition trims in Europe and China, U.S. customers are still waiting for the order window to open. Rumors suggest that Tesla may aim to introduce orders for the new model in North America at the beginning of the second quarter, addressing both operational efficiency and customer demand.

As for European customers, deliveries of the long-range all-wheel drive (LR AWD) version are already underway, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) versions expected to start arriving in May and June. Similarly, deliveries in China have kicked off, with a turnaround time of just 2-4 weeks for new orders.

The developments at Tesla’s Giga Texas and the international markets highlight a pivotal moment for the automaker as it navigates consumer demand and inventory management strategies.