Ride the Lightning: Tesla and EV Podcast

Episode 549: Tesla Introduces New Model Y Variant

16 snips
Feb 8, 2026
A new Model Y AWD variant and naming tweak are unveiled, with pricing and range details discussed. Apple CarPlay progress and Tesla trademark moves for future models get attention. Consumer Reports crowns the Model Y a top EV, and China’s new door-handle safety rule could affect Tesla. Updates include longer dashcam history, community-chosen Supercharger sites, and Rivian autonomy pricing news.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Model Y AWD Tradeoffs

  • Tesla renamed the lower-priced Model Y trims, adding an AWD standard variant priced $2,000 above RWD.
  • The AWD boosts performance (0-60: 4.6s) but reduces EPA range by 27 miles to 294 miles.
ADVICE

When To Pay For AWD

  • Consider winter climates and tire choice before paying $2,000 for AWD on a Model Y standard.
  • Ryan recommends prioritizing proper winter tires over AWD for most buyers.
INSIGHT

CarPlay Still Coming

  • Apple CarPlay integration for Teslas is reportedly still in development and likely coming.
  • Ryan expects rollout timing in upcoming spring or summer updates, possibly limited to newer MCU hardware.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app