Is Tesla struggling to sell the Model Y?

Since the launch of the new Model Y, the question arises why are Tesla’s delivery times so short.

Tesla now offers delivery of the new Model Y in just two weeks in China, raising questions about a potential drop in demand. This recently refreshed model was launched in October and includes aesthetic improvements as well as features inspired by the recently updated Model 3.

The first deliveries of the Model Y Long Range with all-wheel drive began this week in China. At the same time, Tesla has opened orders for standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) versions not limited to the launch edition.

Rumors suggested that Tesla had recorded hundreds of thousands of orders for this new Model Y. A credible figure given the global popularity of this electric SUV. However, Tesla’s updated configurator in China raised doubts. According to the site, a Model Y Standard RWD ordered today could be delivered in just two to four weeks. For the Model Y Long Range, the timelines extend slightly to six to ten weeks.

More supply than demand?

This fast delivery contrasts with Tesla’s usual practices, where wait times were often longer, and raises the question of weaker demand. According to insurance data, Tesla deliveries in 2025 are down by about 7,000 units compared to the same period last year.

The transition to the new Model Y may impact Tesla’s figures for the first quarter, though the extent of this impact remains uncertain. With production seeming well managed, it is the demand that could be problematic.

In China, a key market where the impact of Elon Musk’s controversial personality is mitigated, Tesla needs to deliver more than 50,000 vehicles in March to match its performance from 2024. But beyond this immediate challenge, the success of the Model Y will be the true indicator of Tesla’s current difficulties.

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