- Tesla introduced the China-spec Model Y Performance as a new high-performance variant to boost demand amid waning Model Y sales and intensifying competition from local premium entrants.
- Equipped with a 78.4 kWh battery, CLTC 659 km range, 0–100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, top speed 250 km/h, priced at RMB 369K (about $55K); deliveries in 2–6 weeks.
- Targets Xiaomi YU7 GT and premium performance SUV buyers, but risks include ongoing sales declines, heavy discounting, production and delivery timing, and margin pressure versus local rivals.
Tesla has officially launched the Model Y Performance in China, adding a new high-performance variant to the lineup.
Priced at RMB 369K ($55K), the new model is expected to begin deliveries within 2–6 weeks. It is now the most expensive Model Y variant available in China and the fifth version of the SUV offered in the market. The price is RMB 30K ($4.5K) higher than the six-seat Model Y L.
By comparison, Xiaomi’s YU7 GT, another performance-focused SUV, starts at RMB 389.9K ($58.1K) for the dual-motor GT variant. The Model Y Performance undercuts it by about RMB 21K ($3.1K).
The China-spec Model Y Performance uses a high-output dual-motor system, accelerating from 0–100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.
Beyond the power upgrade, Tesla has also added sport-focused enhancements to the exterior, cabin and chassis.
The model features dedicated aerodynamic front and rear bumpers, a carbon-fiber spoiler, 21-inch Arachnid 2.0 wheels and red brake calipers, giving it a more aggressive appearance than the standard Model Y.
Inside, the SUV adds carbon-fiber trim and front sport seats. The front seats support ventilation and powered thigh extension adjustment, while the rear seats offer heating and electric folding functions.
The chassis receives continuously variable dampers, an adaptive suspension system, multiple performance driving modes and stability assistance features, further sharpening its handling performance.
According to previous regulatory filings, the Model Y Performance is equipped with a 78.4 kWh battery pack and delivers a CLTC-rated range of 659 km.
The launch comes as Model Y faces increasing sales pressure in China.
Data from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) showed that Model Y deliveries in China totaled 29,260 units in August, down 25.76% year over year. It marked the third consecutive month of YoY decline and the second straight month that Model Y lost its position as China’s best-selling SUV.
Tesla is counting on new variants to revive Model Y sales momentum.
The company is also offering inventory discounts to boost deliveries before the end of the third quarter. On Sept. 7, Tesla announced that Chinese customers purchasing in-stock Model Y vehicles before Sept. 30 can receive a RMB 10K ($1.5K) discount on the final payment.
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