Tesla hacker reveals a new Model Y with 6 seats is in the works

A Tesla hacker has revealed that through a new software update, the automaker is working on a new Model Y with a 6-seat configuration.

Last week, we reported that Tesla referenced an upcoming 7-seat configuration for the new Model Y in communications with customers.

The automaker previously offered a 7-seat configuration for the Model Y, before the design refresh earlier this year. It was never very popular.

Now, we learn that Tesla is also working on a 6-seater configuration, which would be completely new to Model Y. Tesla offers a 6-seater configuration for the Model X, but it never did for other models.

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Green, an infamous Tesla hacker who often reveals upcoming features by sifting through the code in new Tesla software updates, made the discovery and commented:

“The much-rumored 6-seater Model Y made an appearance in the firmware.”

There had been several rumors about the 6-seater Model Y in the past, but they were almost exclusively in China and referenced a potential longer wheelbase Model Y that never made it to production.

Now, Green notes that his findings point to the new version likely not being only for the Chinese market.

It’s not clear what a Model Y 6-seater could look like, but it would likely feature a 2+2+2 seating configuration with captain seats in the middle, much like the Model X.

Electrek’s Take

This is interesting. If Green is discussing it, it’s in the code, and Tesla is undoubtedly working on it, but it has not been confirmed to be made available. I’ll believe it when I see it.

For my money, if Tesla wants to introduce a 2+2+2 configuration on the Model Y with captain seats in the middle, you kind of need a longer wheelbase. Otherwise, something is getting smushed.

The third row in the previous Model Y was already tiny and only suitable for children or very small adults. A 2+2+2 configuration does give the opportunity to open up that third row a bit with potential for more legroom, but I’m really curious to see how that second row looks like in a Model Y after that.