Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced that the company would unveil a new and “unexpected” product on Monday, October 17th. That’s just a few days away. The automaker will also hold a Tesla/SolarCity announcement on October 28. The announcement of the Oct.17 event has the rumor mill speculating what the company would unveil – the much-anticipated Model Y prototype or something else?
What is Tesla planning to unveil?
Tesla could unveil new and improved Autopilot 2.0 hardware with retrofit upgrades to existing vehicles. According to TechCrunch, the next-gen Autopilot will be able to read stop signs and traffic lights, allowing cars to navigate even off highways. Another possibility is updates to the Autopilot software stacks. Some other theories include improved battery packs or some new infotainment system.
Tesla product unveiling on the 17th (unexpected by most), followed by Tesla/SolarCity on the 28th
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 9, 2016
There is also a possibility of Model 3-related updates, which could include optional specs. The company could also show off the final design of the mass-market Model 3 vehicle, which is set to hit the roads in the second half of 2017. It can go from 0-60 mph in just 4 seconds, and is said to have a range of 300 miles.
What about Tesla Model Y release date?
It seems unlikely, though Elon Musk has confirmed the name Model Y and that it will be based on the Model 3 chassis. The Model Y release date is expected to be around late 2017 or early 2018, so its announcement on Oct.17 seems a little unlikely. Model Y will be a compact SUV inspired by the Model X, but without the falcon-wing doors. It is said to be priced at slightly higher than Model 3.
When Tesla unveiled its Master Plan in July, the company said it would also bring an electric minibus based on the Model X chassis, which would transform public transport. However, the minibus is expected to be unveiled only in 2017. Note that the Internet is only speculating what Tesla would unveil next week. We will get to see it only on October 17th. There is a chance that Tesla could be planning something entirely different.
Tesla should speed up Model Y launch
Experts believe that Tesla should speed up the Model Y launch. Consumer demand for sedans is falling as people prefer SUVs and crossovers. Automakers are investing heavily to introduce SUVs and crossovers to the market, including electric ones. Tesla has an electric crossover in the form of Model X, but its price tag is beyond the reach of most people.
At the SolarCity event on October 28, the company is expected to unveil a new Powerpack and the Solar Roof product. Elon Musk has clarified that Tesla/SolarCity financing will not be needed in the fourth quarter of this year or the first quarter of 2017.
Photo by TeslaClubBE
