Tesla intends to construct a Model Q, spanning almost 4 meters, during the initial half of 2025.
There has been much speculation about a new entry-level electric vehicle from Tesla, dubbed the "Model Q." However, it's essential to clarify that this name has not been officially announced by Tesla. Instead, the term appears in unofficial or speculative coverage, and it is widely viewed as a nickname or informal label for an affordable Model Y variant.
Last week, an analyst from Bank of America reported on a visit to Tesla in Texas, where the company reportedly confirmed the market launch of a more affordable electric car in the first half of 2025. According to the report, the affordable vehicle is expected to be a simplified version of the current Model Y, with fewer premium features like the glass roof, rear screen, ventilated seats, and high-end audio removed to reduce costs.
Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, has emphasized that demand for electric vehicles is strong but affordability is the main obstacle. The company's goal is to offer the Model Y at a lower price point, accessible "for everyone," by cutting features and simplifying the design. Trial production for this affordable Model Y variant began in June 2025, with availability expected in Q4 2025 (October–December).
The rumored price for this affordable variant is around $28,000, significantly below current Model Y pricing. If produced and sold in China, the Model Q's price is expected to be around 140,000 renminbi, approximately $19,000.
The Model Q will reportedly have battery variants with 53 kWh and 75 kWh of capacity, each about 10% less than the current batteries for Model 3 and Model Y. Tesla is using the cheaper and increasingly powerful LFP chemistry in the Model Q's batteries, while Model 3 and Model Y still use NMC with cobalt. The Model Q is approximately 15% smaller and 30% lighter than the Model 3.
It's worth noting that the report from GlobalChinaEV does not specify whether the information about the Model Q's price in China is an official statement from Tesla or a speculation from the conference participant. Similarly, the source of the Bank of America analyst's information is not specified.
The specifications for the Model Q would include fully autonomous driving capabilities but fewer luxury or performance features compared to higher-end Tesla models. The publication does not provide information on whether the Model Q will be produced and sold in Europe. There is also mention of an upcoming lower-cost Model 3 version following this launch.
In summary, Tesla’s "Model Q" is not an officially separate model but more accurately refers to an affordable, stripped-down Model Y launching around Q4 2025 at an estimated $28,000 price point. The company's goal is to broaden its market reach globally by focusing on accessibility rather than new design or technology.
- The speculation about a new electric vehicle from Tesla, often referred to as the "Model Q," is surrounding a more affordable version of the Model Y, set to launch in the first half of 2025.
- Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, has emphasized that demand for electric vehicles is strong but affordability is the main obstacle, and the company aims to offer the Model Y at a lower price point to make it accessible to everyone.
- The affordable Model Y variant, which started trial production in June 2025, will reportedly have battery variants with 53 kWh and 75 kWh of capacity, using cheaper and increasingly powerful LFP chemistry.
- With an estimated price of around $28,000, the affordable Model Y will be available globally, aiming to broaden Tesla's market reach rather than introducing new design or technology.
