The Tesla Model Y Finally Gets Dark Wheel Covers in France

Already introduced in various international markets, the dark gray hubcaps are now offered as standard on the Tesla Model Y in France.

Tesla continues to provide commercial arguments to keep the flame alive. The latest topic of discussion is the famous dark gray plastic Gemini hubcaps. Free in some markets, horrendously expensive in others, they have finally arrived in France. Ironically, for once, Tesla is not being provocative and is offering them for free. Are sales that bad that arrogance is no longer an option? Canadians, who had to pay 700 dollars for four plastic discs initially priced at 25 dollars each when they are light gray, must feel quite frustrated…

It is worth noting that originally, even today, the Tesla Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive and Long Range are still delivered with light gray Gemini hubcaps. It is up to the customer, during configuration, to choose the dark gray version at no additional cost.

Conversely, the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive version is now delivered by default with this new dark styling element that slightly cheapens the Tesla Model Y.

No impact on performance

The argument from Tesla is therefore purely aesthetic, while the Model Y has already entered its fourth year of commercial life. But past the initial wow factor, sales are now dangerously flattening. In Europe, it remains the best-selling electric car due to an aggressive pricing strategy, but its sales have dropped by 16% year-on-year (July 2023 versus July 2024). However, BMW has become the top seller of electric cars overall for the brand. This is the trend that Tesla needs to reverse, and the solutions are few.

They start with dark gray plastic hubcaps. The next might be the return of black as the standard body color, rather than the unappreciated white in France. Or perhaps slashing prices like in Spain?

All shades with the new hubcaps

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