Tesla has officially made its grand entrance into the Malaysian market with the launch of the Tesla Model Y electric vehicle (EV), spearheading the brand’s presence here. The model comes fully imported (CBU) from China.

As reported earlier, prices start from RM 199,000 for the base rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant, RM 246,000 for the all-wheel drive (AWD) Long Range variant, up to RM 288,000 for the range-topping AWD Performance variant.

Looking at the performance figures, the base Model Y with a single motor powering the rear wheels offers 347 PS and 420 Nm of torque. It can sprint from 0-100km/h in 6.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 217 km/h. The Model Y's 57.5 kWh (usable) battery (lithium iron phosphate, LFP) enables a rated range of 430 km on the WLTP cycle.

The AWD Long Range Model Y gets dual motors producing 514 PS and 493 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.0 seconds, while maintaining a top speed of 217km/h. The larger 75 kWh (usable) battery (NMC) extends the rated range to 533 km (WLTP).

The top-of-the-line Tesla Model Y Performance takes things up a notch with an output of 534 PS and 660 Nm of torque. 0-100km/h is zapped in 3.7 seconds, and it can reach a top speed of 250 km/h. The range slightly decreases to 514 km in the WLTP cycle.

Also read: Officially imported Tesla Model Y for Malaysia - from RM 199k, FSD upgrade for RM 32k, deliveries starting in 2024

In terms of AC charging, all variants accept up to 11 kW. Meanwhie, DC charging for the RWD variant is rated at 170 kW, while higher rung variants (AWD Long Range and AWD Performance) go up to 250 kW.

Customers of the RWD and AWD Long Range variants can choose to upgrade from the standard 19-inch Gemini wheels to the 20-inch Induction Wheels for an extra RM 10,000. The interior can also be customised from Black to White for RM 5,000.

Meanwhile, the Performance variant features 21-inch Uberturbine wheels, performance brakes, a carbon fibre spoiler, aluminium pedals, and lowered suspension.

While Autopilot comes as standard, Tesla offers Enhanced Autopilot for RM 16,000 and Full Self-Driving (FSD) Capability for RM 32,000. Despite the names, all these systems still require active driver supervision as they're classified as a SAE Level 2 semi-autonomous driving feature.

Buyers are able to choose between five colours: Pearl White, Solid Black, Midnight Silver Metallic, Deep Blue, and Red. While the Pearl White option comes at no additional cost, the other colour choices require a top-up of RM 5,000, with the Red option commanding a premium of RM 10,000.

Also read: Watch out 3 Series, C-Class - Tesla's presence in Malaysia would disrupt the premium segment

The Model Y in Malaysia comes with a 4-year/80,000 km basic vehicle warranty, while the battery is covered by an 8-year/160,000 km warranty. The Long Range and Performance variants boast an extended 192,000 km warranty, all with a minimum 70% battery capacity retention.

Tesla Malaysia has listed an estimated delivery timeline of early 2024.

Also read: MITI: No intention to abolish AP system; no special treatment for Tesla

Tesla's entry into Malaysia also heralds the arrival of its Supercharger network in the country, with plans for 10 upcoming Supercharger locations, spanning across the Klang Valley, Johor, Negeri Sembilan, Perak, and Pulau Pinang.

The first location is in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, with no less than 8 charging bays. Though at time of publishing the chargers are yet to be in commission.

Also read: Initial network of Tesla Superchargers in Malaysia to cover 10 locations from Penang to Johor