Tesla’s product lineup has always been streamlined – for years it essentially sold two models (Model S and X) before introducing the more affordable Model 3 and Model Y. Today, Tesla continues to shake up its offerings. With rising competition, Tesla is both adding new vehicle variants and phasing out older models in some markets. This year, two significant developments are the emergence of the Model Y L (a longer, 3-row Model Y) and the quiet disappearance of the Model S and X from Tesla’s European market. In this article, we delve into these changes, what they mean globally, and how Tesla’s strategy is adapting.

The New Model Y L (Long-Range Model Y)

One of the most talked-about Tesla projects in mid-2025 is the Model Y L, a rumored longer version of the best-selling Model Y. On August 9, 2025, Teslarati reported that industry watchers in China observed the Model Y L entering mass production at Gigafactory Shanghai. The “L” in the name suggests a longer wheelbase, likely giving room for a third row of seats. In fact, reports indicate it will feature six seats – two in the front row, two captain’s chairs in the middle, and two in the back.

Specifications and Features

According to filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Model Y L will have the following specs:

• Battery and Range: A large 82.0 kWh lithium-ion battery (from LG Energy Solution), giving a China CLTC range of around 751 km.

• Powertrain: Dual-motor all-wheel drive (for the China version; perhaps AWD will be standard).

• Interior: Six-seat configuration with two second-row captain’s chairs.

• Other: Likely similar interior design to the standard Model Y, but with added length for comfort and space.

This means the Model Y L is effectively a three-row SUV – a segment only Tesla’s Model X has occupied so far in its lineup, and at a much higher price. The Model X (and S) have long been Tesla’s luxury and performance flagships, but their sales volumes were always much smaller. The Model Y L seems aimed at families needing extra seating at a lower price point than the Model X. It could tap into a huge market: nearly every other automaker has a three-row EV SUV by now.

Production Advantages

The Model Y L benefits from being built on the existing Model Y production lines. Tesla can stretch the body without major retooling of the car’s platform. This means lower development and manufacturing costs, and faster ramp-up. As longtime Tesla owner and investor @_SFTahoe noted, producing the Y L on existing lines “should slash new vehicle tooling costs and potential ramp-up issues”. In practice, Tesla may need to slightly slow the standard Y production to accommodate the longer body, but the hope is that this is easier than creating a brand-new model from scratch.

Market Potential

Three-row SUVs are popular globally, especially in the U.S. North America, China, and parts of Europe all have demand for larger SUVs. Until now, Tesla customers needing that had to buy a Model X or import one. The Model Y L could dramatically expand Tesla’s appeal in this segment. Because it likely costs less than a Model X, it may open up the high-end SUV market to more buyers. Analysts note that Tesla’s mastery of scale could let it price the Y L aggressively against legacy three-row EVs (like the Mercedes EQB, BMW iX, or upcoming Ford Excursion).

Interestingly, the Model Y L also has potential for Tesla’s planned Robotaxi business. Long time Twitter user @_SFTahoe pointed out that the extra space and second-row captain’s chairs could make the Y L an ideal Tesla taxi with premium seating. If Tesla wants an autonomous ride-hailing fleet with comfortable seats (think of a ride-share van), the Y L fits the bill better than the standard Y.

Availability

Since production is reportedly underway in Shanghai, the first deliveries of Model Y L will likely happen in China late 2025. Tesla could choose to export it to other markets or begin local production later. For U.S. buyers, it may take longer. There are no right-hand-drive China factories yet, so European and UK deliveries might also be later or come from Shanghai with RHD conversion. Tesla has in the past done slow imports (e.g., Model Y from Shanghai to Europe) and eventually localized production (a RHD line at Giga Berlin or Giga Texas could produce it in 2026).

Model S and X Phased Out in Europe

In stark contrast to the new Model Y L, Tesla’s original luxury models are fading in Europe. On August 4, 2025, automotive news site PistonHeads reported that Tesla had quietly removed the Model S and Model X from its European online configurator. This suggests Tesla will no longer sell new S or X in Europe once existing inventory runs out. Given that both cars were only offered as left-hand-drive in the UK even before Brexit, this effectively kills their viability in right-hand-drive markets like the UK.

Why Discontinue in Europe?

The main reason is simple: demand. Data shared with Reuters showed Tesla’s sales in Europe have nosedived – down 33% in the first half of 2025. Within that decline, the largest drop is in larger models. Across Europe, smaller crossovers like the Y are more popular now, whereas big sedans and luxury SUVs are a shrinking market. The PistonHeads piece noted that interest in the Model S and X “has tapered to such an extent that it no longer makes sense to sell them in Europe”. Tesla had even just given S and X minor facelifts, only to yank them from the market shortly after.

For context, the Model S was Tesla’s first mass-market success story, “blazing a trail not only for its brand, but for EVs in general”. But even this multi-award-winning sedan could not withstand plummeting popularity and Tesla’s corporate turmoil. The Model X, with its distinctive falcon-wing doors, was always more niche. Without strong sales, keeping them in the lineup in Europe is a losing proposition, especially as Tesla is trying to cut costs (recall it cut thousands of jobs in 2022-2023).

What About Other Markets?

Model S and X will still be sold in the United States and possibly China for now. In the U.S., Tesla can still sell left- or right-hand drive versions with plenty of demand for high-end models. In China, Tesla sometimes re-introduces older models at lower prices (like the Model 3 Standard in early 2025). There hasn’t been word yet of dropping S/X in China. But if Tesla’s strategy is to streamline, the S and X might eventually be phased out globally in favor of newer designs (for example, the rumored next-generation premium sedan might ultimately replace the S).

Current owners of the S or X in Europe need not panic. Service centers will continue to support them, and software updates should carry on. However, once stocks dry up, finding a brand-new S or X in Europe will be difficult. Tesla might consider a new version later, but as of today, the S and X appear to be retired from the European scene.

Other Model Updates

Beyond these headline items, Tesla’s product line has other interesting tidbits:

• Cybertruck: While not a minor “variant,” it’s worth noting Cybertruck continues production in Texas. Tesla has teased an “Armor Glass” option for extra-strong windows (likely the Model Y L rolled out with updated tempered glass front bumper camera, which hint at changes). The Cybertruck’s unique stainless steel exoskeleton and futuristic design mean it stands apart, but its rollout has been slow. Tesla owner forums speculate on possible trim levels (some suggest an “Armadillo Armor Package” rumored for late 2025). For now, Cybertruck remains largely the same, still aiming to meet Tesla’s production goals.

• Roadster and Roadster 2.0: The new Roadster is perpetually coming soon. As of mid-2025, Tesla hasn’t updated its timeline publicly. It seems unlikely to debut in 2025 given other production priorities. Existing Roadsters (the original ones from 2008-2012) remain collector items.

• Solar & Powerwall: In the broader “Tesla ecosystem,” 2025 has seen the expansion of Tesla’s Solar and Energy products. Tesla Solar Roof installations are picking up, and the integration with Powerwall (for home battery) continues. While not a “car model,” these products tie into Tesla’s vision and are often discussed alongside cars by owners.

Global Production and Regions

Gigafactory Shanghai is clearly the hub for China-centric and some global models. The Model Y L production there suggests China might get it first. Giga Berlin (Germany) and Giga Texas (USA) are focusing on volume models (Y, 3, and Cybertruck) and perhaps a Europe-tailored version of the Y L later on. The blueprint is possibly: Shanghai produces for Asia and exports to Europe, while Berlin eventually handles some exports or local sales to reduce shipping time.

One interesting note: the Tesla configurator in each region now reflects these changes. European sites no longer offer S/X, whereas American sites still show them as available. The Model Y L has not yet appeared on any public configurator, as its launch is still under wraps, but anticipation is high. Owners in Europe have been trading rumors of when (or if) a three-row Model Y will come to their market. The answer is likely “yes, but in due course.”

Implications for Tesla Owners and Buyers

• For Buyers: If you’re in Europe and needed a larger Tesla, your choices are now Model Y (five-seat) or importing an S/X from the US (costly due to taxes). Tesla clearly expects most family buyers to opt for the upcoming Model Y L when it arrives. In the US, consider Model Y L as an upcoming option if you want a Tesla SUV with more space than the current Y offers. Keep an eye on Tesla’s announcements in 2026.

• For S/X Owners: If you own a Model S or X in Europe, Tesla will continue servicing your car and releasing software updates. But note that no new units are being sold there; that might affect resale value (often specialty models hold value well, but lack of new sales can depress prices). In the US, S and X are still sold, though Tesla’s focus seems to be shifting.

• Used Market: With new S/X off the line in Europe, used ones may become more sought after by niche buyers. Conversely, Model Y L reservations may open up as soon as Chinese deliveries begin, so potential buyers should prepare for ordering announcements.

Conclusion

Tesla is clearly evolving its lineup in response to market forces. The addition of the Model Y L represents a bold move to capture a lucrative segment with minimal R&D by using existing platforms. Meanwhile, phasing out the Model S and X in Europe shows Tesla cutting losses in segments with weak demand. These shifts underscore Tesla’s strategy: focus on high-volume, profitable models (like crossovers) and trim the fat where volumes are low. For consumers, this means Tesla’s offerings will become more tailored: no S/X in Europe but a new roomy SUV instead. Watching Tesla’s next product moves will be key to seeing how it navigates the competitive EV era.

FAQ

• Will the Model Y L be available in my region?
  Tesla plans global launches, but availability will be staggered. China will likely see it first (late 2025). A US version will come once Giga Texas production ramps (possibly 2026). Europe may get it by late 2026 with right-hand-drive models from Giga Berlin or imports.

• Are Model S and X gone for good?
  They are discontinued in Europe. Tesla still sells them in the US and likely China for now. However, Tesla has no announced successor for Europe, so at least in the near term, no new S or X there. Globally, Tesla seems focused on SUVs and sedans in the mid market, so S/X are being de-emphasized.

• What’s the difference between Model X and the new Model Y L?
  Both have three rows of seats, but the Model X is a luxury flagship (with falcon-wing doors and a higher price). The Model Y L will target a more affordable price point using the existing Model Y platform (more like an extended Y, not as opulent as X). Think of X as a more expensive, feature-rich option, and Y L as a pragmatic family hauler.

• When will Tesla release its next new car?
  The next confirmed model is the long-range Model 3 (coming late 2025) and possibly a new lower-cost sedan/SUV in late 2025. The Model Y L is also effectively a new variant. After that, Tesla’s roadmap (publicly) is thin. Any “New Tesla” reveals are based on leaks or patents.

• How will these changes affect resale value?
  If a model is discontinued (like S/X in Europe), its scarcity can keep used prices stable or higher. But if demand is truly low, prices may fall. It’s a balancing act. For new entrants like the Y L, early adopters might pay a premium, but Tesla usually prices slightly below competitors. Overall, Tesla’s strong battery tech and brand still support decent resale values.