The Most Efficient Electric SUV In 2024

One of the reasons that potential buyers of electric vehicles (EVs) often hesitate to switch to an electric car is range anxiety. Range anxiety refers to a fear that an EV will not have sufficient battery power to get to its destination, leaving the driver stranded. It’s like being scared of running out of fuel in a traditional internal combustion engine car but for electric mileage. Nevertheless, it still retains its lead in class with best-in-class autonomy, leading other competitors when it comes to range. This fully-electric Tesla SUV, introduced in 2020, shares its platform and most of its cabin with the Model 3 sedan.

The Tesla Model Y offers up to 320 miles of driving range at best estimates for an extended long-range version, which puts it among the electric SUVs with the most range, making unplanned expeditions or long-distance trips effortlessly enjoyable for potential owners full of enthusiasm and adventure. However, it’s not all breaking free from the pump for the Model Y. It also offers thrilling acceleration, roomy interiors, and state-of-the-art technology under an attractive, streamlined design. This article examines the performance and capabilities of the 2024 Tesla Model Y and, more importantly, focuses on its impressive range and how it achieves it.

To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including HotCars, the EPA for gas mileage (Fueleconomy.gov), and Car and Driver.

The 2024 Tesla Model Y Takes The Lead As The Most Efficient EV In Its Class

Tesla still leads the electric vehicle landscape, for now at least. The best illustration of this progress is the 2024 Model Y. It entered the market in 2020 and has not been updated significantly since then. However, it still offers a class-leading electric range with daily usability and sporty performance. The Tesla Model Y is the best-selling electric SUV and the most popular EV car globally. Moreover, it already belongs to its segment’s top 10 new vehicle sales in America. People love the Tesla Model Y so much because of its sleek design and spirited handling.

One major factor contributing to Tesla’s Model Y’s success today is its remarkable achievements due to its large battery pack, aerodynamic exterior solutions, efficient motors, and other features that create a winning all-electrical powertrain. In addition, Tesla’s advanced software improves multiple aspects of energy consumption, like regenerative braking.

For instance, the Long Range AWD trim boasts two motors—one on each axle—making it an all-wheel-drive with blistering acceleration. This helps the Model Y perform better than its competitors while offering an impressive range. Such capabilities, combined with the low center of gravity, give rise to a nimble yet thrilling driving experience for the Model Y.

320 Miles Of EPA-estimated Range On A Single Charge While Averaging 3.5 Miles/kWh

Range anxiety is a common concern with electric cars. However, this is precisely what Tesla intended to overcome with its model Y—and they definitely succeeded. With long battery life options and extended ranges, among many other benefits, buyers of the 2024 Model Y are no longer fearful about how far this electric SUV can take them before running out of charge. Additionally, recharging on long trips has been simplified with Tesla’s Supercharger network of fast charging stations.

2024 Tesla Model Y Specifications

The 2024 Tesla Model Y offers electric ranges for different driving needs. From commuting to long family road trips, charging the Model Y is fast and convenient. If you charge at home using a wall connector, you can increase the range by up to 44 miles of range per hour. Or if you plug the mobile connector into any standard outlet the range gain is around 30 miles per hour

. Another great advantage is the ability to add up to 160 miles of range in a mere 15 minutes using a Tesla’s Supercharging network. Given that the Model Y can travel up to 320 miles (approx.) on a single charge, it’s likely that you’ll run out of juice before the Model Y does.

Its Aerodynamic Design, Lightweight Construction, And Advanced Powertrain Are Behind Its Efficiency

We’ve discussed the Model Y’s remarkable range and efficiency, but how did Tesla make this possible? Well, partly because Model Y was conceived to cheat the wind. Here are three examples. First, its streamlined, sloping body lines minimize air resistance. This enables the vehicle to glide through the air better. Also, its flush door handles help decrease turbulence and drag by contributing to a smooth body surface. Last but not least, the Model Y can further reduce drag with the optional aerodynamic wheels since they’re designed to provide optimal airflow around the tires.

Another important aspect contributing to the Model Y’s impressive efficiency is its lightweight construction. For instance, the base Rear-Wheel Drive trim exhibits a maximum curb weight of 4,213 pounds or 1,911 kilos. Tesla engineers achieved the Model Y’s lightness by extensively using lightweight materials such as aluminum throughout the car’s body. This technique reduces the overall weight and energy required to get the car going, thus increasing the driving range.

But Tesla didn’t stop there. Their efficiency-focused approach also encompasses the powertrain, specifically the motors. Tesla electric motors are engineering marvels built to convert most of the charge stored in the battery into wheel-turning power. Their design helps minimize wastage and extend the range.

It’s Powered By A 75 kWh Battery And Single Motor (RWD) Or Dual (AWD)

Tesla offers the Model Y in three Trims: Performance, Long Range AWD, and Long Range RWD. All come with different battery sizes, ranges, and performance specifications. The most efficient trim is the Long Range AWD, which features an estimated range of 310 miles courtesy of its 75-kWh lithium-ion battery and a 250 kW max charge using Tesla’s supercharging technology. It boasts a charging speed of up to 160 miles in 15 minutes. It gets between 111-129 MPGe or 3.3-3.8 miles per kWh, and the charge time is 8–10 hours at 240V.

The Tesla Model Y is Also A Very Convenient And Attractive SUV

The 2024 Tesla Model Y is a mid-size SUV measuring 187 inches (4750 mm). It can comfortably seat five passengers and has an spacious cargo area. In terms of design, it’s convenient, and the available all-wheel drive system allows the vehicle to go virtually anywhere. Tesla took the Model 3 and made a taller, bulkier version, especially from the A-pillar back. It’s not an SUV with outstanding ground clearance; it’s classified as a crossover based on the Model 3.

In fact, when you are in front of the Model Y, it’s difficult to differentiate whether you’re looking at a Model 3 or a Model Y because the design of all its elements is identical, with the same headlights, bumpers, hood, etc. Only the surface of the roof and windows, along with the rear hatch with a significantly higher waist, differentiate it from the Model 3. Therefore, we are talking about a car with a reasonably subtle design that is simple but liked by many folks.

What You Get With The 2024 Tesla Model Y

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The 2024 Tesla Model Y isn’t merely about electric performance; it represents innovation and careful design. It may seem more impressive for its headline range. Still, once you get behind its wheel, you will be inundated with the features, amenities, and technology that bring the driving experience up another notch.

Once you enter the Model Y, you will discover a minimalist cabin filled with natural light from its expansive panoramic glass roof. This spaciousness makes it perfect for families or weekend trips because it extends equally to passengers and cargo. The premium seating materials and sculpted center console create an atmosphere of luxury, thus ensuring comfort during long travels.

Regarding technology, the Model Y is in a league of its own. When one presses the start button on this vehicle, a giant 15-inch touchscreen appears, which serves as the control point for nearly every car function. All your necessary travel tools, like a navigation system plus climate control, are within reach through this screen, including fun activities that will make your long-distance journey enjoyable.

Though some people may find such reliance upon one screen overwhelming, it undoubtedly contributes to the car’s sleek and modern appearance. Moreover, when dealing with fine details, Tesla knows how to do them right. A high-end audio system provides immersive sound, while a smartphone app allows remote pre-heating or cooling of your vehicle.

Tesla understands that connectivity is crucial. Consequently, the Model Y offers incredible integration with your smartphone’s functions, such as call-making, music listening, or navigation apps. Not only that but also Tesla updates its software regularly, allowing your vehicle to benefit from the latest functionalities plus bug repairs at any given time.

It Has Earned The “Top Safety Pick+” Award From The IIHS

The 2024 Tesla Model Y aims to ease safety concerns by having a good safety record and earning high praise from authoritative safety institutions. It has received the best possible rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), called “Top Safety Pick+.” This prestigious accolade indicates that the Model Y fares well in crash tests. There are no National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ratings for the 2024 Model Y yet, though former models have received favorable scores. For instance, it achieved a 5-star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA in 2021.

Regarding reliability, J.D. Power ranked the Model Y as average. For 2024, it got a score of 70 over 100. This score measures the level of defects, malfunctions, and design flaws experienced by vehicle owners. Covers the entire vehicle, from the engine to the infotainment system. A higher rating means fewer problems.

Driver Assistance Features

Eight side curtains and knee airbags are among the many active and passive safety features. The 2024 Tesla Model Y incorporates stability control, a hill holder function, and tire pressure monitoring. Tesla’s well-known Autopilot suite includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, and collision warning.

Tesla also offers its “Full Self-Driving Capability,” although it doesn’t actually provide fully autonomous driving. Still, it boasts cutting-edge capabilities like automatic lane changing, auto park, summon, and navigation on Autopilot. Recently, Tesla integrated traffic signs, light recognition, and autosteer.