A well‑known Tesla code sleuth, posting as Greentheonly on X, has unearthed images and strings within the brand‑new 2025.2 software that depict a Model Y configured in both 2‑2‑2 and 2‑3‑2 seating layouts. Previous seven‑seat Tesla Model Y units were limited to US‑built, left‑hand‑drive vehicles and were quietly dropped from the lineup last year. Now, the appearance of fresh graphics in global firmware suggests a broader roll‑out.
What do we know so far?
Two possible cabin layouts
| Version | Seat layout | Description |
| Six‑seat | 2 + 2 + 2 | Individual middle‑row chairs divided by a fixed console – a first for Model Y. |
| Seven‑seat | 2 + 3 + 2 | Conventional bench in the second row; similar to the discontinued US spec. |
Tesla has not confirmed either configuration, nor final dimensions.
Right‑hand‑drive potential
All Australian‑bound Teslas currently come from the company’s Shanghai plant, which already produces right‑hand‑drive Model Y units. Speculations state that the updated Tesla Model Y could be extended in wheelbase and length with specific body panels to make room for the extra row of seats. This would address the minimal space offered in the previous iteration of the seven-seat electric crossover, and in theory, allow the family‑friendly variant to reach showrooms without the cost of a separate build programme.
Why does it matter?
- Limited rivals: Only a handful of three-row electric SUVs are available today in Australia – Kia EV9, Mercedes‑Benz EQB and (soon) Volvo EX90.
- First seven‑seat Tesla since 2020: The Tesla Model X left Australian showrooms four years ago; a three‑row Model Y would fill the gap.
- Sales momentum: Tesla Model Y remained Australia’s top‑selling EV through May 2025, additional seats and storage could boost its momentum further.
Expected debut and local launch
Firmware references usually surface 6–12 months ahead of production changes. That points to a late‑2026 Australian debut at the earliest.
Tesla Australia has made no official comments on future products.
Outlook
If Tesla commits to a right‑hand‑drive, three‑row Model Y, it will hand Australian EV buyers something they have repeatedly requested: an attainable, family‑sized electric SUV with practical range and a widespread charging network. For now, though, the extra seats remain lines of code – and a glimpse of what might be charging into showrooms next.
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