New Model Y crossover images show bigger, better trunk space

New images of the upcoming Tesla Model Y confirm the big rear cargo space that will be a major point of difference from its already popular stablemate, the Model 3.

Tesla will commence deliveries of the Model Y electric crossover in March and CEO and co-founder Elon Musk has said he expects it will be more successful than the Model 3.

The recent images which have been shared on social media channels Facebook and Reddit give a hint to why this may prove true: the generously sized rear hatch and cargo space of the Model Y should make it a handy multi-purpose vehicle with far better access than the Model 3’s sedan-style boot.

One image posted overnight (Australian time) on social forum site Reddit shows the height and length of the Model Y hatch, which stretches to just behind the second row rear seats.

This reminds us of a Model 3 and Model Y comparison shared on photo sharing site Imgur that gives a good idea of the difference between the Model Y and Model 3, including the difference in height between the two.

With the hatch open – as can be seen in an image of the inside of the trunk posted by Thomas Andre Davik‎ in a Tesla Model Y enthusiast group on Facebook – there is a very generous amount of room that is easily accessible thanks to the hatch back.

While not entirely surprising, it is an important distinction from its predecessor which Musk has said is three-quarters identical to the Model 3.

It cannot be understated what this seemingly minor difference could mean for the electric vehicle market, and the private transport sector as a whole.

The Tesla Model 3 in 2019 outsold all other electric vehicle (EV) competitors in the US, and has lead a surge in EV sales in Europe.

Along with the Model 3, the Model Y is intended as a “mass-market”electric car that bypasses the high price of EVs due to battery costs by streamlining other areas of production – hence both vehicles’ incredibly minimal interiors.

This may not prove to the case in Australia, where the Model Y is not yet available for order, and due to import costs, currency conversions and the outdated Luxury Car Tax may cost in excess of $A100,000.

However, given the popularity of crossovers and SUVs in Australia, it will be sure at least to secure a share of a low but rapidly growing interest in electric vehicles.