Tesla Model Y : Practicality, Safety, and Cutting-Edge Technology

The Model Y took the EV world by storm when Tesla first launched it in 2020. it's practical in many ways, offering a spacious interior and advanced safety features. But it's also minimalist and techy with modern touch, featuring a panoramic glass roof and user-friendly dashboard.

Not only does it look good but it has a great range too, with the standard model getting you 215 miles. Frequent software updates and an advanced driver-assistance system keep you and your passengers as safe as possible. Ticking so many boxes, it is clear to see why so many pick a Tesla Model Y as their first EV.

The Tesla Model Y is one of the most diverse and practical EVs currently on the market. Its generous size boot and spacious rear seats cater for those needing extra space, whether that’s because you have a growing family or are simply going on a camping trip with lots of extra bags. Load it up with groceries, sports gear or up to five decently-sized suitcases -no problem at all. The rear seats are comfy for road-trip adventures and you can fit three people in the back with ease, making it an enjoyable ride for everyone.

The safety features of the Tesla Model Y are some of the best we have seen in an EV. It’s even being awarded 5 stars by NCAP. The Autopilot system sets this EV apart from the rest. While not fully autonomous, it includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking which reduce the risk of accidents and supports drivers.

The combination of high-strength materials and strategic engineering also contributes to the vehicle's exceptional performance in crash tests and safety ratings.

Tesla also release over-air software updates to improve safety and add new features to the Model Y. This makes sure that your EV is always up-to-date with the latest safety advancements even after leaving the dealership.

The Tesla Model Y definitely has a simplistic interior with no physical buttons as the touch screen display controls everything and adds to the modern feel. The dashboard is clean and user-friendly so you can use all the fun features, from creating a customisable horn to watching Netflix at the end of a long journey. In the front there’s a handy wireless charging pad as well as numerous charging ports throughout the cabin.

Another really useful feature -not only do the front seats have loads of move-ability but the back passenger seats can also be reclined. It’s sure to make your passengers your biggest fans.

The efficiency of Tesla’s stems from extensive research, regenerative braking systems and their aerodynamic designs. Both their design and braking help to extend range so you don’t have to worry about charging as often.

What sets Tesla apart from many other manufacturers is being able to access their Supercharger network. This vast and rapidly expanding network of high-power charging stations enables Tesla owners to charge up at lightning speeds, in as little as 15 minutes. They’re placed by popular travel routes to make it even more convenient when you’re on a long trip. You’ll never have to go far to charge up.

With one of the leading ranges in the market, the Tesla model Y may not even need to use the superchargers with a real world range of 215 miles. If you do get stuck low on charge however any rapid charger can get you up to 100% in 25 minutes, perfect for a quick lunch stop on a road trip.

If you’re more of a city driver, the acceleration is perfect for nippy driving in and out of traffic with a 0-60mph of 6.9 seconds.

Comparing the Tesla Model Y and the Polestar 2 in their standard range versions, it’s clear to see why many first time EV owners struggle to pick between the two.

Both EVs have impressive ranges with the Polestar 2 taking a slight lead at 235 miles while the Tesla Model Y has a respectable 215 miles range. They also have a very similar 0-60mph at around 6 seconds.

But the Tesla Model Y does benefit from the Tesla Supercharger network, allowing super quick charging on the go. Polestar is looking to roll something like this out too, but it’s still in the works.

The Tesla has almost double the boot space and with its roomier cabin there’s no worry about your passengers being cramped in.

Performance wise, both EVs are very similar but if you’re planning road trips with the family the Tesla Model Y’s big cabin and speedy charging might be the one for you. But if you’re living in the city and that bigger car is going to make it hard to park, the Polestar 2 is definitely worth checking out.

Find out more about the Polestar 2 in our review.

For many, a Tesla Model Y is a great starting point for EVs, so comparing it to a petrol or diesel equivalent is really important. Due to its size, the popular family SUV the Audi Q5 has seen some comparisons. Both cars have similar space but to get anything more than the standard specifications on the Q5 you’ll need to upgrade. The Q5 is also a lot bigger externally whereas the Tesla is a lot more sleek with all that room hidden inside.