Elon Musk Confirms Bad News for Tesla Model Y 6-Seat Version
Tesla has rolled out the extended-length Model Y in China, the world’s largest auto market, but whether the upgraded version will make its way to U.S. showrooms remains unclear.
Following last month’s leaks, Tesla has now officially launched the Model Y L in China, marking the global debut of the long-wheelbase version of its best-selling EV. The move is a strategic one, as Chinese buyers often prefer elongated vehicles for their added interior space and comfort. While the U.S. market also has a strong demand for larger vehicles, Elon Musk has hinted that this new stretched Model Y may never reach American shores.
Posting on his X platform, Tesla CEO Elon Musk said U.S. production of the Model Y L wouldn’t begin until late 2026. He added that the elongated version might never reach the American market at all, pointing to the rapid advancement of self-driving technology as the reason.
He’s not going to say anything until the international release obviously. People think he just forgot but these are deliberate choices https://t.co/I4Bq1gAKq8
— Whole Mars Catalog (@WholeMarsBlog) August 19, 2025
Trying To Pick Musk’s Mind For This Claim
Elon Musk didn’t explain why he believes autonomous driving could prevent the Model Y L from reaching the U.S. market. Tesla has made significant strides in self-driving technology, including rolling out robotaxis in select areas and completing the first self-delivery of a Model Y in June. Most likely, Musk is referencing his long-standing view—highlighted in Walter Isaacson’s biography—that widespread self-driving adoption could ultimately reduce the need for individual car ownership.
Following Elon Musk logic, widespread adoption of self-driving technology could eliminate the need for personally owned vehicles, as people could simply summon an autonomous Tesla to get around. In that context, introducing a three-row Model Y to the U.S.—designed for families, road trips, and group adventures—starts to clash with the philosophy behind autonomous cars, making its American launch seem less practical.
That said, this is largely speculative—there’s no concrete evidence that Elon Musk intended this interpretation with his statement.
The Model Y L Faces Mixed Reviews in China
The Tesla Model Y L is essentially a stretched version of the popular SUV, measuring 113.8 inches in length—7.3 inches longer than the standard Model Y—with a 5.9-inch longer wheelbase. This extra space translates to a roomier cabin that accommodates six passengers, featuring second-row captain’s chairs for easier access to the third row. The model also gets subtle cosmetic updates, including new paint options, wheels, and a rear spoiler, while the upgraded seats are designed with enhanced comfort in mind.
However, comfort may not be the Model Y L’s strongest suit. Reports from China indicate that buyers aren’t impressed with the additional seats, citing a cramped rear cabin. The SUV’s sloping roofline further limits headroom in the third row, suggesting that Tesla may need to address these concerns before considering a launch of the longer Model Y for U.S. customers, who typically favor spacious interiors.
It’s worth remembering that the previous Model Y offered an optional third row, and reports suggest it may return in the updated version. Still, questions remain about whether buyers would be interested in a stretched Model Y L that omits the third row altogether.
With Tesla’s U.S. sales currently declining, it’s likely the company will be cautious about introducing any new models in the near term.
