Tesla Model Y Boosts Range by 60 Miles: Is Paying Up to $2,000 Justified?

Tesla Model Y can extend its driving range by up to 60 miles
But instead of cheers, criticisms have been pouring in

The Tesla brand announced that it can extend the driving range of Model Y, one of its best-selling models. Additional driving range can be obtained from as little as 64 km (40 miles) to 97 km (60 miles). However, this is causing controversy among consumers as it has been revealed that an additional fee worth up to $2,000 must be paid in the U.S.

This is because it is a method of unlocking existing locks rather than adding or upgrading parts. Work is expected to be carried out easily through wireless software updates. Nevertheless, there are continued criticisms that the high costs are being charged and that this is a sales tactic.

This isn’t the first time there’s been a driving range restriction
Even at that time, they asked for additional money

This is not the first time Tesla has limited driving range. In 2016, there was controversy over the old Model S. At the time, Model S was known to be equipped with a 70 kWh battery pack and drive about 354 km (220 miles). Afterward, Tesla revealed that it was fitted with a battery pack with a capacity of 75 kWh and announced that the driving range could be extended to 381 km (237 miles). However, it caused public outrage when it was said that an additional $3,000 would have to be paid for this.

This time, drivers can unlock the driving range by paying between $1,500 and $2,000 for Model Y RWD. Based on the U.S. EPA standards, Model Y RWD is certified to have a driving range of 418 km (260 miles) on a single charge.

Subscription policy is increasing
Mercedes-Benz and BMW are no exception

In addition to driving range, Tesla has been controversial for locking autonomous driving functions such as Full Self Driving (FSD). Tesla has continued to delay the provision of features because it has not passed relevant regulations. Consumers were angry that they could not use the function properly even after paying the amount. They complained that they could not use the function until they sold the vehicle.

In addition to Tesla, similar subscription policies have recently been on the rise throughout the automobile industry. Mercedes-Benz limits rear-wheel steering, which can move nearly 10 degrees, to 4.5 degrees and requires payment of an additional amount to unlock related functions. BMW has also received criticism for changing basic features such as seat heating to locking and including it in the subscription.

Concerns raised about subsidy fraud
Consumer complaints are on the rise

The companies’ position is that they will lower the price in exchange for not providing related functions, but there is also a high level of consumer dissatisfaction with vehicles being built with related functions but prevented from being used. Another point of concern is that it deceives consumers into thinking the price has been lowered, but it can also act as a trick to avoid subsidy policy standards.