Tesla Model Y Performance AWD Specs Revealed: 659 km Range
Tesla’s upcoming Model Y Performance All-Wheel Drive has now received its complete specification disclosure, revealing a performance-oriented dual-motor powertrain, a 78.4 kWh battery, and a surprisingly strong 659 km CLTC range.
The model first appeared in Batch 409 of China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) new vehicle catalog, where only basic information such as exterior details, dimensions, and motor identification was available. The subsequent MIIT purchase-tax-exempt new-energy vehicle catalog has now filled in the remaining technical specifications.
The result is a Model Y Performance that delivers substantially more power without relying on a larger battery pack.
🔋 Battery and Range Specifications #
The Model Y Performance AWD is equipped with a 78.4 kWh battery pack and has a 659 km CLTC-rated range.
Interestingly, Tesla has not increased battery capacity compared with the current Model Y Long Range. The Performance variant uses the same 78.4 kWh capacity, suggesting that its range efficiency is being achieved through powertrain optimization rather than additional energy storage.
This is particularly notable because the Performance model is tuned for substantially higher output.
Model Y Performance vs. Model 3 Performance #
The range figure becomes even more interesting when compared with the Model 3 Performance.
Both vehicles use a 78.4 kWh battery, yet the Model 3 Performance is rated at 647 km under the CLTC cycle, while the Model Y Performance reaches 659 km.
| Model | Battery Capacity | CLTC Range |
|---|---|---|
| Model 3 Performance | 78.4 kWh | 647 km |
| Model Y Performance AWD | 78.4 kWh | 659 km |
A 12 km advantage may appear modest, but it is notable because the Model Y is a larger SUV with greater mass and a less favorable aerodynamic profile than the Model 3 sedan.
One possible explanation is improved efficiency from Tesla’s newer-generation electric motors and associated powertrain optimization. The official specifications establish the result, although the exact engineering factors behind the efficiency advantage have not been fully disclosed.
⚡ 467 kW Dual-Motor Powertrain #
The Model Y Performance AWD uses a front/rear dual-motor configuration identified by the motor codes TL2/4D2.
The disclosed output figures are:
- Front motor: 176 kW
- Rear motor: 291 kW
- Combined output: 467 kW
A total system output of 467 kW translates to an extremely high-performance powertrain for a family-oriented electric SUV.
While 467 kW is not an extraordinary figure compared with some high-output EVs currently available in China’s highly competitive electric vehicle market, it represents an aggressive calibration for the Model Y platform.
The rear-biased output distribution also aligns with the vehicle’s Performance positioning, potentially giving Tesla more flexibility in balancing straight-line acceleration, traction, and cornering behavior.
🏎️ Performance-Oriented Exterior Changes #
At first glance, the Model Y Performance remains visually close to the standard Model Y. However, several details distinguish the performance variant.
The key exterior changes include:
- Redesigned body trim
- A revised rear diffuser
- Red brake calipers
- Arachnid 2.0 web-style wheels
These changes are relatively subtle compared with a complete body redesign, but together they provide the Performance model with a more aggressive visual identity.
The red brake calipers in particular serve as an immediate visual indicator that this is not the standard Model Y configuration.
🛞 Staggered Performance Tire Setup #
The Model Y Performance also adopts a staggered tire configuration, with different tire widths at the front and rear.
The specification lists:
- Front: 255 mm
- Rear: 275 mm
The wider rear tires are consistent with the vehicle’s performance-oriented setup. A staggered configuration can provide additional rear-axle grip and improve traction and stability when accelerating out of corners.
For normal commuting, the difference may be difficult to notice. Under harder driving, however, the wider rear contact patch can contribute to improved traction and cornering stability.
The configuration also reinforces the rear-biased character of the Model Y Performance’s 467 kW dual-motor powertrain.
🚗 What the Specifications Mean for Tesla’s Model Y Performance #
The most interesting aspect of the new Model Y Performance is not simply its peak power. Instead, it is the combination of 467 kW output, a 78.4 kWh battery, and a 659 km CLTC range.
Tesla appears to be pursuing higher performance without accepting the range penalty that might normally accompany a significant increase in power.
The unchanged battery capacity suggests that improvements in motor efficiency, powertrain control, and overall vehicle optimization are playing an important role. If real-world efficiency approaches the efficiency implied by the CLTC rating, the Model Y Performance could offer a more balanced combination of performance and everyday usability than its positioning might suggest.
With the major technical specifications now officially disclosed through China’s MIIT certification process, the remaining question is primarily when Tesla will formally launch the model.
Based on Tesla’s typical vehicle rollout process following regulatory certification, the Model Y Performance AWD appears to be approaching its official market launch.