Much Cheaper Tesla Model Ys Are Coming to Australia

Tesla is about to shake up the Australian EV market with more affordable versions of its best-selling Model Y.

The company has confirmed that non-Launch Edition variants of the updated Model Y will soon be available in Australia following their official showcase at the Everything Electric show in Sydney this weekend. This means a price drop is on the horizon, making Tesla’s top-selling model more accessible than ever.

▶️MORE: Tesla Model Y Specs & Features

A More Budget-Friendly Model Y

While pricing details haven’t been officially revealed, the non-Launch Edition variants are expected to cost less than the current Launch Editions. For reference, the Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Launch Edition currently starts at $63,400 before on-road costs, while the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Launch Edition is priced at $73,400 before on-road costs.

▶️MORE: Are Tesla Superchargers worth it in Australia?

▶️EXPLORE: Explore Zecar's EV Data

To put that into perspective, the previous base Model Y RWD was priced at $55,900 before on-road costs, while the Long Range AWD was $69,900 before on-road costs. The new pricing is expected to align closely with these earlier figures, making Tesla’s electric SUV a more compelling option for those looking for a high-tech EV without stretching their budget too far.

What’s Missing from the Non-Launch Edition?

The lower price tag will come with some trade-offs. Tesla is expected to remove a handful of premium features found in the Launch Edition, including:

▶️MORE:Tesla Testing Virtual Queues To Solve EV Charging Chaos

Power tailgate
Puddle lights
Doorsill plates
Launch Edition badging
Complimentary premium paint
The acceleration boost (which is usually a paid software upgrade on the AWD model)

▶️MORE: Best EV Charging Networks in Australia

While these features add a touch of luxury, their absence won’t impact the Model Y’s core appeal—its impressive efficiency, range, and cutting-edge tech.

Tesla Model Y Demand in Australia

Interest in the Model Y remains high, but Tesla has faced some turbulence in the Australian market. Allocations for the cheapest RWD Launch Edition have already been exhausted, and demand for the AWD Long Range Launch Edition is also strong. This could mean the upcoming non-Launch Edition variants will see similar demand, especially given their expected lower price.

▶️MORE: Australia's EV Market Set or Massive Growth in 2025

Tesla’s Sales Decline, Can the Model Y Turn Things Around?

Despite its dominance in the EV space, Tesla has seen a sharp decline in Australian sales this year. In February, the company sold only 1,592 vehicles, a staggering 71.9% drop from the 5,665 sold in the same month last year. Year-to-date, Tesla’s sales have fallen 65.6%.

Some industry analysts believe this decline is linked to CEO Elon Musk’s polarizing public image, while others point to customers waiting for the updated Model Y before purchasing. Either way, the upcoming non-Launch Edition variants could boost Tesla's ability to regain its footing in the Australian market.

▶️SURVEY: Elon Musk's Influence Turning Australians Away from Tesla

The Growing Competition from BYD

Tesla’s slowdown has allowed Chinese EV maker BYD to make serious inroads. BYD saw a 38.4% sales increase in February, selling 3,956 vehicles in Australia. While much of this success is attributed to the new Shark 6 Plug-in Hybrid ute, its Model Y rival—the Sealion 7—is also gaining traction.

➡️MORE: Home charging guide for Tesla Model 3 & Y

What’s Next?

More details on the upcoming Tesla Model Y variants, including official pricing and specifications, are expected to be revealed at the Everything Electric show in Sydney this weekend. If you’re in the market for an EV, it’s worth keeping an eye on Tesla’s next move—because a more affordable Model Y could be just around the corner.

Stay tuned for updates as we break down everything you need to know about Tesla’s latest push in Australia’s EV space.