Some European Tesla Model Y vehicles would receive CATL batteries

The Chinese version of the Tesla Model Y has been benefiting, since this fall, from a battery that provides more range and power.

Tesla remains faithful to its principles: no communication or information to its customers. You have to browse owner forums to find out what’s happening behind the scenes. Thus, some have realized that their very recent Model Y manufactured at the German factory in Berlin may not be equipped with a BYD battery. However, this battery was introduced in spring 2023, with the particularity of a much faster charging speed than the previous CATL. The criticisms were already there: the net capacity of the BYD battery was lower than that of its rival. Fewer kilometers but faster recharges. Tesla thus minimized the impact during long trips…

Nevertheless, in China, to strengthen sales, which are attacked by fierce competition, Tesla upgraded its Model Y Propulsion in autumn. A new battery capable of storing more energy and delivering greater power. Mobiwisy was alarmed, last December, that the technical sheet (+20 kW) of the “European” Model Y Propulsion had evolved, but not its performance. The Chinese version accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, compared to 6.9 seconds for the European version.

The Chinese version, with its different homologation test, promises a range of 554 km. Comparing it with the Model 3 promised for 513 km in Europe versus 606 km in China, one might guess that the European Model Y Propulsion with the CATL battery could aim for around 470 km. Currently announced with 455 km in Europe, the Model Y with CATL battery would then gain about fifteen kilometers compared to the BYD model.

Towards a Tesla Gate in France?

The issue is that the customer cannot choose the battery installed in their future car. However, a customer has the right to know exactly what they are buying. Especially at this level of investment.

On enthusiast forums, the answer could be found in the 7th letter of the chassis number: E for a BYD battery, F for a CATL battery.

Finally, since the origin and composition of the battery are now taken into account in the environmental score determining eligibility for the eco-bonus, could the Tesla Model Y lose this advantage with the new CATL battery? Moreover, why this change of situation? Lack of BYD batteries? Desire not to depend on the now number 1 worldwide in electric cars? Willingness to keep industrial secrets from BYD? The reasons can be multiple.

We better understand Tesla’s desire to proceed in secrecy, but everything gets known very quickly these days.

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