Would you be surprised to learn that the best-selling automotive in the world last year was an electric vehicle?
The Tesla Model Y was the global best-seller in 2023, with 1.22 million sold. That’s up 64% year over year, with 480,000 more units sold than in 2021.
While the debate over whether to buy an EV or an internal combustion engine car rages on, consumers globally spoke loudly last year by giving an EV the crown for best-selling vehicle.
Here are 16 reasons the Tesla Model Y, a midsize crossover SUV, is king.
Electric Vehicle Popularity
Looking at the U.S. EV space, it’s clear the industry is growing. According to Edmunds, there were 1,077,138 EV sales and 1,242,608 hybrid sales last year, while there were 713,145 EV sales and 754,772 hybrid sales in 2022.
More people are giving EVs a chance to be better stewards of the environment, lessen their carbon footprints, and save a ton on fuel.
That’s one reason EVs like the Tesla Model Y are gaining more attention and winning over more consumers.
Strong Brand Reputation
Tesla is among the most popular EV manufacturers in the world. Competition is heating up, but the word “Tesla” is still used as a synonym for “electric vehicle” for many people—the way that “iPad” is synonymous with “tablet” for many people. And while China-based EV maker BYD is no slouch, Tesla is what many people think about when it comes to EVs.
Excellent Range
According to Tesla, its Model Y has a range of as much as 337 miles on a single charge, which is more than enough to get to and from wherever you want. Range anxiety is less of a problem when the odds are you’ll want to take a break on a road trip before your EV needs a top-up.
Supercharger Network
As of July 2024, the U.S. Supercharger Network had 2,300+ sites and close to 26,500 stalls. When you combine an EV with a good range and a strong EV charging network, you can confidently operate your vehicle without worrying about being stranded on the side of the road.
High Safety Ratings
It’s popular, yes. But is the Model Y safe? According to CleanTechnica, the Tesla Model Y was at the top of the pack on the safety front for its class. In doing so, it earned the top score possible from the IHHS. So, owners know they’re getting a safe EV when they get behind the wheel.
Advanced Driver Assistance with Autopilot
While Tesla’s advanced driver assistance with Autopilot isn’t exclusive to the Model Y, it’s an additional benefit that has made the Model Y a resounding success. It offers adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and some autonomous driving capabilities.
Spacious Interior and Lots of Cargo Space
Inside, the Model Y is spacious. According to a TopGear.com reviewer, there’s plenty of room for adults to sit comfortably in the back row, even with the sloping roofline. The glass roof helps make the interior feel airy.
The Model Y has 854 liters of total stowage and 117 liters in the frunk. After folding down the rear seats, there’s north of 2,158 liters.
Quick 0-60 MPH Time
The 2024 Tesla Model Y Long Range model does 0-60 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds, while the Performance model does it in a more spirited 3.6 seconds. That counts as super-quick for many car owners.
Over-the-Air Updates
Some EVs support over-the-air updates, which is a great feature since you won’t have to go to a dealership or service center all the time. That’s one reason Tesla Model Y owners love their cars.
The automaker regularly issues over-the-air updates to improve the performance, infotainment options, and safety of its vehicles.
Room for Seven Passengers
Many drivers need three rows to seat more people. One reason Model Y owners love their SUVs is that they can accommodate as many as seven passengers, which is great for bigger families that need more seats.
Impressive Towing Capacity
You can tow up to 3,500 pounds with a Tesla Model Y. That’s enough for many people’s needs. Even so, remember that towing reduces driving range.
Access to Tesla’s Full Ecosystem
When you buy a Model Y, you enter the Tesla universe and gain access to the EV company’s full ecosystem of products and services, including home charging solutions and solar power options.
Low Center of Gravity for Better Handling
The battery of a Tesla Model Y is positioned low on the EV’s chassis. A lower center of gravity is associated with more stability and better handling.
All-Wheel-Drive Availability
You can get a Model Y with AWD. That can be a game-changer if you want an EV but need AWD whether you live in a rural area with unpaved roads or get a lot of snow, slush, and ice during the winter.
Customizable Driving Modes
Tesla owners appreciate the customizable driving modes that allow them to adjust acceleration, steering feel, regenerative braking levels, and more.
Tesla’s Innovation Track Record
Another reason the Model Y is a best-seller is that people who want an EV and an SUV trust Tesla’s strong track record for innovation. Tesla’s not the only game in town. But it’s a player that people know and trust.
These Are Some Reasons for the Model Y’s Popularity
It’s mind-boggling that an EV was the best-selling vehicle worldwide in 2023. The Model Y wasn’t just the best-selling EV. It beat out internal combustion engine vehicles, too. How’s that for boldly going where no EV has gone before?
More From Driver’s Drift
15 Easy-to-Miss Signs of Unmarked Cop Vehicles You Should Know About
16 Must-Have Car Gadgets That All Senior Motorists Should Own
15 Things Boomers Taught Us About Cars Which Are Totally Wrong Today
12 Most Reliable Hybrids You Should Consider Buying as Your Next Drive
