Elon Musk promises a ‘different’ Model Y for Europe

Just as Tesla is preparing to begin producing its Model Y in a new factory in Germany, CEO Elon Musk let it slip that the battery SUV would differ from its North American spec.

He provided no further details, but it sounds like the EU version might be getting slight design modifications. We will learn more on September 22, when Tesla will be unveiling newest traction battery technologies and also talking about the Model Y.

U.S. shipments started this spring. The off-roader comes based on the Model 3 platform and boasts dual electric motors. It comes with a variety of battery sizes to choose from, and the top spec only needs 3.5 seconds to hit 60 mph (97 km/h) from a standstill. It maxes out at 250 km/h (155 mph) and can go as far as 450 km (280 miles) prior to needing a recharge.

The Gigafactory Four is located not far from Berlin, Germany and will be opening next year. Aside from the Model Y, it will also be producing the Model 3 and traction batteries, Tesla reports.

In earlier news, Elon Musk said he wanted to establish a design HQ in Europe that would localize the company’s EV range for the Old World markets. It is now official that the new design center will be located on the new Gigafactory territory. The current HQ is in Hawthorne, California.