It appears the Tesla Model Y L, the six-seater variant of the Model Y previously exclusive to China, is preparing for its right-hand drive (RHD) debut. According to reports from CarExpert, Australia is set to be the first market outside the Middle Kingdom to launch the Model Y L.
Newly published documents from Australia’s Road Vehicle Regulator (ROVER) confirm that the Model Y L, specifically variant YL5NDB, has been officially approved for sale there.
Launched in China in August 2025, the Model Y L features a wheelbase that is extended by 150 mm, to a total of 3,040 mm, contributing to an overall length of 4,969 mm. This represents a 177 mm stretch over the standard Model Y. Externally, the Model Y L remains largely identical to its sibling, except for the loftier roofline and an enlarged pillar supporting the panoramic sunroof.
That roofline is specifically 44 mm higher, which translates to extra headroom on the inside that allowed Tesla to swap the standard second-row bench for two individual captain’s chairs, along with a new third-row bench, creating a 2-2-2 seating configuration. Second-row occupants are treated to power-retractable armrests, ventilation, and heating, alongside power recline and folding functions.
Other interior equipment include the larger 16-inch central touchscreen, which has also since been inherited onto the standard Model Y as part of the 2026 update, as well as new power-extendable thigh supports for the front seats. Below the screen, a revised wireless charging pad now features ventilation to support fast charging at 50W and 30W.
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The sound system is also updated, featuring a 19-speaker Tesla Audio system, which includes a new subwoofer integrated into the base of the centre console. Climate control for rear passengers has also been improved through the addition of dedicated air vents built into the B- and C-pillars.
With the longer wheelbase, the rear boot space of the Model Y L is now rated at 2,539 litres with all the seats folded, which is a significant jump from the 2,130 litres found in the regular five-seater model.
Powering the Tesla Model Y L in China is a dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) setup. Regulatory filings with China’s government stated these motors produce 193 hp and 269 hp, for the front and rear motors, respectively.
In classic Tesla fashion, official combined output numbers are not disclosed, though the company claims a 0-100 km/h sprint of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 201 km/h. This is juiced by an 82 kWh nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) battery, enabling a range of 751 km (CLTC) or approximately 616 km (WLTP).
However, the Model Y L bound for global markets may arrive with more range. Based on European regulatory filings shared by X user @eivissacopter, the Model Y L in Europe is expected to be equipped with a larger 88.2 kWh battery, enabling a range of 681 km (WLTP) on 19-inch wheels.
With the Tesla Model Y L officially approved for Australia, the spotlight now turns to the rest of the right-hand drive market. Recall that we in Malaysia were amongst the first to receive the updated Model Y globally, so it stands to reason we could also be in line to launch the six-seater Y L here too – if Tesla Malaysia sees a market for it, that is.
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