Tesla has reduced range estimates for two Model Y vehicles, the Model Y Long Range and the Model Y Performance, by six percent. This reduces the range of the Model Y Long Range to 310 miles from 330 miles and the Model Y Performance to 285 miles from 303 miles. The rear-wheel drive Model Y is unaffected and retains its 260-mile range.
There's no official reason why Tesla lowered range estimates, but it's long been an open secret in the industry that the company tends to exaggerate these metrics. In fact, South Korea for precisely that reason. There have also been accusations of canceling or minimizing service complaints related to autonomy.
In other words, the company probably took this step so that its range estimates more accurately reflect reality and not an unrealizable idea. Not that the old estimates were outright lies. The range calculations simply assumed perfect weather conditions with a perfect driver operating the vehicle at maximum efficiency. In the real world, that is very rarely the case.
The EPA performs many of these tests and recognizes that pristine driving conditions will rarely match real-life variables. For this, the agency with range estimates of increase or decrease after performing your own tests. Many manufacturers choose to voluntarily reduce the range estimate to better meet driver expectations. It seems that Tesla went the other direction.
Even Tesla's algorithms recognize these inaccuracies. If you fully charge a Model Y and set a destination that is 260 miles away, the navigation algorithm will automatically guide you through a Supercharger, as indicated Electrek. If the range was really, say, 330 miles, it wouldn't have to be that way.
For now, these changes only apply to the Long Range and Performance Model Y versions. We don't know if Tesla's other vehicles will receive revised range estimates. The company does not have a public relations/communications department, so there is really no one to turn to for more information.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/tesla-lowers-model-y-range-estimates-by-around-20-miles-165640710.html?src=rss
