Tesla’s Larger Model Y L Expected to Reach U.S. by Late 2026

Tesla is preparing to introduce the long-wheelbase Model Y L to the U.S. market, with production expected to begin at Gigafactory Texas in September and customer deliveries anticipated before the end of 2026. The six-seat electric SUV has already launched in several international markets and is viewed as an important addition to Tesla’s American lineup.

Industry forecasts indicate that U.S. production will be separate from Tesla’s operations in China, which currently supplies markets including China, Australia and India. Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecasting at AutoForecast Solutions, said earlier this year that vehicles built in China would not be exported to the United States and that domestic production is expected to start in September. Tesla CEO Elon Musk previously stated in August 2025 that production of the Model Y variant would not begin in the U.S. until the following year.

The extended-wheelbase version recently began deliveries in Malaysia and is already available for order in China, Australia and India. Early reviews have highlighted improvements over the refreshed Model Y, citing greater practicality, versatility, comfort, driving dynamics and range. A June 19 review from The Driven described the Model Y L as a significant upgrade that enhances several key aspects of the vehicle.

Analysts believe the Model Y L could help address a gap created after Tesla removed the Model S and Model X from its U.S. lineup. Edward Loh, head of editorial at MotorTrend, said the company no longer offers a large SUV-style vehicle capable of comfortably accommodating more than five passengers. He noted that the Model Y L would provide a natural replacement and pointed to sightings of the vehicle undergoing testing in California as evidence that preparations for a U.S. launch are underway.

The new model is also expected to solve one of the main criticisms of Tesla’s existing seven-seat Model Y. Loh said the current third-row seating is extremely cramped and reduces comfort for passengers in the second row. By adding roughly six inches of overall length, most of it within the wheelbase, the Model Y L significantly increases headroom and legroom for occupants.

Tesla may also benefit from expanding its most successful vehicle lineup. According to a Cox Automotive report published on April 10, 2026, the Model Y remained one of the most popular electric vehicles in the United States during the first quarter, accounting for one out of every three EV sales. Tesla did not respond to requests for comment regarding the Model Y L’s U.S. launch plans.