U.S. electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla is expected to make a bold entry into the domestic family car market by soon introducing the six-seater electric sport utility vehicle (SUV) 'Model YL' in Korea.
According to the Automobile Emissions and Noise Certification System (KENCIS) of the Ministry of Climate, Environment and Energy on January 16, Tesla Korea's Model YL received certification for a single-charge driving range of 553 kilometers at room temperature and 454 kilometers at low temperature (based on combined urban and highway standards) on this day. This model is produced at Tesla's factory in China.
The Model YL is an SUV variant based on the existing Model Y. It features a long wheelbase (with expanded interior space compared to the original) and a three-row, six-seater seating configuration.
With Tesla launching the Model YL in Korea, fierce competition is expected in the family car market. While domestic brands like Hyundai Palisade and Kia Carnival are enjoying strong popularity, attention is focused on whether the Model YL can establish itself as a game changer in the domestic large SUV market. Since neither the Palisade nor the Carnival currently offers an electric vehicle model, the Model YL is likely to attract consumers who prefer electric vehicles.
Previously, the Tesla Model YL enjoyed explosive popularity in the Chinese market. According to industry estimates, Tesla sold out all units allocated through October immediately after the model's launch in September last year, reportedly receiving more than 35,000 orders on the first day alone.
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