New images of the Tesla Model Y have revealed more details about the upcoming all-electric SUV ahead of its first deliveries this month, including the use of a new “Jay scale” to compare the Model Y height to that of the Model S.
The images, which were posted by two different users, include full-height “selfies” taken next to a Model S and a Model Y, and shots of the seating and rear cargo area of the Model Y, making its imminent release in the US all the more real.
Tesla enthusiast Jason Yu originally shared a “selfie” of himself next to a deep blue Model Y in Daly City, California, on Twitter on Saturday (US time), to allow viewers to see just how big the Model Y will be.
But there was still confusion about the Model Y’s height, because of the apparent amount of ground clearance and the size of the wheels – so Yu took a comparison shot of himself next to a Model S, as well.
Thus, the “Jay scale” was invented.
“Here is a comparison of the Model Y to a face lifted Model S relative to the Jay scale,” wrote Yu.
“Let me know if you want to see how this Model Y compares to another car.”
In order to complete the Tesla cycle. Here is a comparison of the Model Y to a face lifted Model S relative to the Jay scale. Let me know if you want to see how this Model Y compares to another car. #ModelY #models #Tesla @Tesla #Jayscale #Junit https://t.co/nfQOVjJqaH pic.twitter.com/lGDe9UbTDY
— Jay Yu (@jayzilla711) March 1, 2020
Going from the original photo shared by Jason Yu, who is 5’7.5″ (171.5cm), Tweeps commenting on the post estimated that the Model Y would appear to be around 160cm in height – about 15cm taller than the Model 3 (which is 144cm) and around 7-8cm shorter than the voluminous Model X (which is 168cm in height).
The Model S is the same height as the Model 3, which gives a further clue to the height of the Model Y.
Just saw this new Model Y at the parking lot. It looks nice! Blue is a great color as well! #ModelY #YangGang @Tesla pic.twitter.com/TZR1blblqX
— Jay Yu (@jayzilla711) February 29, 2020
Tesla has not shared official sizing of the Model Y despite numerous early models being seen on Californian roads over the last few months, and with so much anticipation for the new electric crossover its no wonder people want to know just how big it will be.
Another image shared by Twitter user @mrleetesla, also gives a clue to the Model Y height, showing that the Model 3 is about 90% of the height of the Model Y – so a height of 160cm sounds about right.
Additional images shared by this Tesla enthusiast also give an indication of the space in the interior of the Model Y.
Firstly, it is notable how much extra height there is inside the Model Y, thanks to those estimated 16 extra centimetres.
There’s also a huge amount of leg room in the front if you really need it (this is on top of generous leg room that already comes standard in the Model 3 thanks to the lack of engine).
Notably, they also show that Tesla is finally bringing on-board USB-C ports, switching up from USB-A for faster charging of mobile devices.
And last but not least, the images show Tesla is also kicking in an additional 12V plug in the back – handy if you have multiple appliances you want to run such as a car fridge.
Bridie Schmidt is associate editor for The Driven, sister site of Renew Economy. She has been writing about electric vehicles since 2018, and has a keen interest in the role that zero-emissions transport has to play in sustainability. She has participated in podcasts such as Download This Show with Marc Fennell and Shirtloads of Science with Karl Kruszelnicki and is co-organiser of the Northern Rivers Electric Vehicle Forum. Bridie also owns a Tesla Model Y and has it available for hire on evee.com.au.