Tesla Releases Updated Model Y to the Philippines

Tesla unveiled its updated Model Y on February 26, 2025, during a modest event, with the vehicle showcased publicly at EDSA Shangri-La Plaza in the Philippines until March 9, 2025. The refreshed electric vehicle, recognized by Tesla as the top-selling car globally, incorporates new design features and retains its notable safety credentials.

 

Tesla Philippine president Isabel Fan explains why the Tesla Model Y is the best selling car in the world.

The Launch Series of the Model Y displays unique elements, such as a custom badge on the rear, puddle light badges, and doorsill plates bearing the “Launch Series” label. Inside, the vehicle offers a distinctive center charging console with silver highlights and a vegan suede trim in all black.

Among the initial owners is Philippine chef Rolando Laudico, widely known as “Chef Laudico.” He shared with CleanTechnica: “I was lined up for the Model Y Launch and have been waiting since November for my car.” Tesla Philippines reports strong demand for both the Model 3 and Model Y, with five units officially delivered to the first customers so far.

At the event, Tesla Philippines President Isabel Fan noted the Model Y’s global sales leadership. In 2023, the vehicle saw a 64% sales increase from 2022, reaching 1.22 million units—480,000 more than in 2021. A JATO Dynamics report stated: “This feat was achieved by no other manufacturer before. Consequently, the Model Y managed to outsell traditional global top-sellers like Toyota’s RAV4 and Corolla sedan.”

The updated Model Y’s exterior draws inspiration from the Cybertruck and Cybercab, featuring a front cross car lightbar and reflective taillights on the body panels. A fresh “Glacier Blue” paint option is introduced. Tesla emphasizes enhanced cabin quietness through double-layer glass windows and a panoramic glass roof that minimizes UV rays and heat. New wheels and a rear diffuser contribute to better aerodynamics and stability at high speeds.

Interior enhancements, borrowed from the Model 3, include ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, and an 8-inch touchscreen for rear passengers. The Long Range version boasts a 15-speaker audio system with a subwoofer, while the Rear-wheel drive model has a 9-speaker setup. Rear seats can adjust or fold, offering over 2,130 liters of storage space.

Tesla highlights aerodynamic improvements to the exterior, boosting range efficiency. The company notes that a 15-minute charge at a V4 Supercharger provides up to 266 kilometers of range. The first V4 Supercharging Station in the Philippines, with four chargers, operates at Uptown Mall. Plans are underway to install additional V4 Superchargers at Shangri-La Plaza EDSA.

Available in Rear-wheel drive and Long Range variants, the Model Y starts at ₱2,369,000 ($40,800) and ₱2,689,000 ($46,500), respectively. The Launch Series is a limited-time offering. Tesla Philippines sources its vehicles from the GigaFactory in Shanghai, benefiting from tariff-free imports under Executive Order No. 12 until 2028.