Tesla Pins of Refreshed Model Y hopes to resume stagnant sales in China to resist Ev competitors
Tesla has received huge orders for its refreshed Y SUV in mainland China, a major boost from U.S. electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers’ sharp declines last month.
According to two sales managers in the city, the company’s Gigafactory, the world’s largest Shanghai, is stepping up production of its best-selling model to ensure early delivery to customers.
Tesla’s sales on the mainland fell to 30,688 in February, the lowest since July 2022. Delivery month fell 51.5% and fell 49.2% per year.
Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends around the world? Get answers with SCMP knowledge, this is the new curated content platform for interpreters, FAQs, analytics and infographics our award-winning team brings to you.
Tesla began delivering upgraded models on the mainland in late February, but Shanghai buyers are still waiting for delivery due to production shortages.
Tesla employees of Shanghai gigafactory 3 witnessed the 2 millionth car rolling off the production line on September 6, 2023. Photo: andout alt alt = Tesla employee 3 Witnesses of Shanghai Gigafactory’s 2 millionth car rolled off the production line on September 6, 2023.
According to the Chinese Tesla website, customers who order the entry-level model Y must wait two to four weeks for delivery. Waiting for a long-term version is six to ten weeks.
“Tesla catches up with its Chinese competitors after losing market share from companies like Byd and Xiaomi,” said Eric Han, senior manager of Shanghai consulting firm Suolei. “A new version of the model Y will surely surface in the near term, but U.S. automakers will still face pressure to maintain their share in this cut market.”
China’s technology news website 36KR reported on Wednesday that Tesla has accumulated orders for 200,000 new model Y, which starts at 263,500 yuan ($36,292). The range of the basic version is 593 kilometers. A long-range variant with a range of 719 kilometers and a price of 303,500 yuan.
The old model costs between 249,900 yuan and 354,900 yuan.
The new model Y has improved exterior and interior and longer driving range. The car also has adaptive headlights that prevent people in front of the car from being blinded by glare.
Tesla has been an out-of-control leader in China’s senior EV field since 2020, when it started operating on the Gigafactory 3 in the Lingang Free Trade Zone. That year, Tesla delivered 180,000 units in mainland China, accounting for more than 16% of total electric vehicle sales in the country.
