Tesla discreetly lowered the Model Y Performance’s performance breaks. The electric automaker even added a cover to conceal the modification, indicating a willful deception on their part, as per Electrek.
Model Y Long Range vs. Model Y Performance
The performance brakes are perhaps the major difference between a Model Y Long Range and a Model Y Performance.
Additionally, the Model Y Performance has a higher top speed and quicker acceleration. However, given that both the EVs‘ powertrains are similar, they are practically software unlocked.
On the other hand, the Model Y Performance’s larger wheels can be viewed as either a pro or a con, depending on your perspective.
The top-performance version also boasts bigger Brembo brakes, which offer exceptional driving performance.
Downgraded performance breaks
Unfortunately, Tesla apparently downgraded the brakes in a “very sneaky and deceiving way.”
The modification was noticed and disclosed by ZEV Centric, a firm producing Tesla EV accessories.
Interestingly, ZEV Centric noticed the degradation while servicing some of their own Model Y vehicles and some of their customers’ Model Ys. They compared the cars, claiming that Tesla intentionally still markets them as “performance upgrades” despite the fact.
“We already have a 2020 MYLR and a 2022 MYP that belong to other members of the company and now have added a company owned 2023 MYP to further develop. We brought all 3 into the office to do some comparisons and a quick tear down. It was at this time that we opted to snap some photos, shoot some video, take some measurements, and reveal what is hiding behind the rear covers. Little did we know that not many people were aware of this downgrade and Tesla still markets it as a performance upgrade on their website.”
ZEV Centric
The Model Y’s Performance upgrade adds a rear Brembo caliper and a rotor that is 2mm thicker with more venting capabilities. In contrast, the car accessory maker claims that the downgrade made the rotor 2mm thinner.
The firm discovered this downgrade when Tesla began to switch its Brembo caliper for a new Mando brake in September.
Brake experts at ZEV Centric further argue that this is a major reduction in brake performance. That said, they think Tesla owes them the Brembo brakes because the modification was not reflected in the Model Y configurator.
In retrospect, ultrasonic sensors and passenger lumbar support controls are just two of the features that have reportedly been eliminated over the past few years. The report explained that this is due to the cost-cutting measures taken by the automaker during those years.
That said, this performance brake downgrade may also be part of the automaker’s cost-cutting effort. However, it would be better if they disclosed such significant modifications, so customers are aware of the difference.
