Tesla China Extends Loan Terms to 7 Years in Push for Pre-Holiday Demand

Tesla China introduces 7-year low-interest financing across three models, launches 5-year 0% plan for Model Y L, and debuts a new Ocean Blue paint option for the Model 3.

On January 6, Tesla China introduced a new long-term low-interest auto loan program covering three models: the Model 3, Model Y, and refreshed Model Y L. For the Model 3 and Model Y, the minimum down payment starts at RMB 79,900 (approx. $11.5K), with monthly payments as low as RMB 1,918 (approx. $277).

Tesla promotional poster showcasing the Model 3, Model Y, and Model Y L with financing details, including low monthly payments and a 0% interest plan. — Tesla’s new interest-free financing promo poster

In addition, the Model Y L is now eligible for a new 5-year 0% interest financing plan—its first time being offered—with a starting down payment of RMB 99,900 (approx. $14.4K) and monthly payments from RMB 3,985 (approx. $575).

Tesla has retained its referral incentive, where current owners who refer new buyers can unlock a RMB 8,000 paint credit to offset custom paint options.

To make the offer more enticing, the company also introduced a new “Ocean Blue” paint color for the Model 3. Compared with the previous Deep Blue option, Ocean Blue is darker and more muted in tone, offering a more understated visual effect that may better align with current consumer preferences.

Side view comparison of two Tesla Model 3 vehicles in Ocean Blue paint, showcasing design and color differences. — Model 3’s new Ocean Blue paint (top) vs. previous Deep Blue (bottom)

According to Tesla’s official website, the updated Model Y also gets a minor tech upgrade: the central display now grows from 15.4 inches (1080p) to a 16-inch 2K panel, while pricing remains unchanged.

Interior view of a Tesla vehicle showcasing a minimalist design with a large central touchscreen and sleek seating. — Upgraded Center Display in the Refreshed Tesla Model Y

Behind this wave of updates is a clear intention: lower the entry barrier by easing down payment and monthly cost pressure—especially ahead of the Lunar New Year shopping season, a traditionally strong period for auto sales in China.

In December 2025, Tesla reported wholesale sales of 97,171 vehicles in China, up 3.6% YoY and 12% MoM, making it the brand’s best-performing month of the year, according to data from CPCA (China Passenger Car Association).

Globally, Tesla delivered around 1.636 million vehicles in 2025, a YoY decline of 8.6%, marking its second consecutive year of delivery contraction.

A Tesla Model Y parked in front of a brightly lit building at night, showcasing the vehicle's sleek design against a colorful illuminated backdrop. — Tesla Model Y L

In comparison, BYD’s 2025 NEV sales totaled approximately 4.6 million units, including 2.26 million pure EVs—a YoY surge of 27.9%—cementing its lead over Tesla in the all-electric segment.

Estimates from Chinese media suggest that Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory accounted for about 851,000 units in 2025, more than 52% of Tesla’s global deliveries. With such a large volume and growing export footprint, China remains Tesla’s most critical market outside the U.S.

Against the backdrop of slowing global growth and a thinning product pipeline, deploying more flexible financing tools may be Tesla China’s most immediate lever to stimulate domestic demand in 2026.