Since the Gigafactory Berlin opened in March 2022, the Model Y has also been available from German production – including the popular "Performance" variant. Previously, the German Model Y market was primarily served by vehicles from the Gigafactory Shanghai in China.
In this article, we want to discuss some of the differences that distinguish the German-made product from the Chinese one.
Tesla Model Y Grünheide: Quality improved
Let me state one thing upfront: The differences between the Tesla Model Y from Grünheide and the one from Shanghai are marginal; only those who look very closely will notice them at all. However, those who take the time to look will notice, for example, the flawless paintwork – a product of the new paint shop in Berlin – or the new, quieter opening mechanism for the tailgate.
The interior has also changed. Quality Improved: Model Y vehicles from Grünheide receive different seats with larger side bolsters and reinforced seams. Furthermore, the lower door panels are no longer made of hard plastic, but of softer materials. The gap between the rear seat and the outer wall is now also covered with carpet instead of hard plastic, which minimizes knocking noises from the seatbelt rubbing against it.
Furthermore, a different, better sound system is installed in the Grünheide model, and the trunk side panels are also shaped differently than in the Chinese model. The latter is primarily due to the fact that a controversial trunk cover was introduced with the new Grünheide model, which is now also available in Chinese vehicles.
By the way: Should you also find the folding mechanism of the parcel shelf bothersome, then You'll find a more comfortable option at Teslabs. Retractable trunk cover.
Tesla Model Y Performance Grünheide: New chassis
There are hardly any technical changes to the Grünheide-built model compared to the Shanghai version. The only modification is to the chassis; the suspension now feels noticeably softer despite the 21-inch performance wheels. Previously, many Model Y customers had complained that the suspension was excessively stiff, even in the non-performance models – Tesla has clearly addressed this issue.
Have you managed to get your hands on a German-made Model Y Performance? We'd love for you to share your experience in the comments!
Source of featured image: Pontus Jerand Wernhammar
