Tesla has been rumored to be developing a more affordable vehicle for years. Initially, this vehicle was the $25K car, but more recently, this has shifted to a more affordable version of the Model Y, codenamed the “E41.”
Now, this cheaper Model Y variant has been discovered within vehicle firmware for the first time, offering a glimpse into the future, more affordable version of the world’s former best-selling car.
The findings, shared by Tesla hacker Greentheonly, outline a long list of simplified or removed features for the new, lower-cost version, likely to target more budget-conscious consumers or large-scale commercial fleets.
While firmware leaks like this are generally an accurate preview of what is to come, they can often contain early or incomplete information. As is the case with the E41, some of the leaked details require some careful interpretation, particularly when it comes to legally mandated safety features.
Interior Features Removed/Changed
The most significant changes found in the firmware point to a vehicle that is visually and functionally distinct from the Model Y currently on the road. The most dramatic of these changes is the apparent removal of the all-glass roof, a signature feature across the entire Tesla lineup that has defined its aesthetic for years. The move to a standard, metal roof is a major design change, aimed solely at cost savings and simplifying manufacturing.
The spartan theme continues inside the cabin, with firmware references pointing to several simplifications:
Simplified fiberglass headliner
Removal of ambient or “accent” lights, but footwell lights remain
8” rear display that’s used for watching content and aiming vents is removed
Simplified, single-axis seat controls
Simplified vents (likely manual controls, no electronic airwave controls, which is the new oscillation feature in the new Model Y)
Exterior Feature Changes
Some exterior and convenience features are also slated for simplification. As per Green’s investigation, the E41 will also get its own unique front and rear fascia. This gives additional credibility to the rumor of Tesla removing the front and rear light bars that currently make the new Model Y stand out.
The updated software also says that Tesla will be removing the power-folding mirrors and door puddle lights.
This more affordable vehicle was seen partially covered up earlier this summer, revealing several features, including the removal of the light bars and the glass roof.
Feature | Model Y | E41 Y |
|---|---|---|
Interior | ||
Seating Type | Vegan Leather | Textile |
Seat Controls | Full | Single axis |
Headliner/Trim | Textile/Alcantara | Simplified |
Ventilated Seats | Yes | No* |
Heated Seats | Yes | No* |
Heated Steering Wheel | Yes | No* |
Ambient Lighting | Yes, RGB | None |
Rear Touchscreen | Yes | No |
Rear Vents | Electric | Manual |
Speakers | 15+1 | 10+1* |
Center Console | One-Piece | Two-Piece |
Coat Hooks | Yes | No |
Power Reclining Rear Seats | Yes | No* |
Oscillating front vent | Yes | No* |
Turn Signal Stalk | Yes | Yes |
Exterior | ||
Optional Tow Hitch | Yes | No* |
Puddle Lights | Yes | No |
Power-folding Mirrors | Yes | No |
Metallic Reflective Glass | Yes | No* |
Acoustic Glass | Yes | No* |
Bumper Camera | Yes | Yes |
Front Lightbar | Yes | No |
Matrix Headlights | Yes | No* |
Glass Roof | Yes | No |
Rear Lightbar | Yes | No |
* Everything with an asterisk is currently unconfirmed, but based on other leaks and the Mexican Model 3, we expect these features not to be included or cut down.
Drivetrain & More
The firmware indicates that the E41 will be available in both Rear-Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive configurations. Interestingly, both versions are listed with “special motor configurations,” according to Green, which suggests that Tesla may be developing a new, perhaps more cost-efficient motor variant for this cut-down Model Y.
The suspension and basic 18” wheels are also described as simplified, suggesting that Tesla will likely also cut the adaptive suspension now standard in the refreshed Model Y for a cheaper and easier-to-manufacture option.
The most puzzling detail from the leak is the indication that the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is being removed. This one is a bit odd, as the TPMS is a legally mandated safety feature in most of Tesla’s major markets, including the United States, Canada, and Europe. Its absence in the firmware is almost certainly not indicative of a final production choice for these reasons, and likely one of those incomplete pieces of information.
Who is the E41 For?
The extensive list of removed and simplified features makes the likely purpose of the E41clear. Tesla is looking to lower the entry point for the Model Y as much as possible, helping shift more people from ICE vehicles and into an affordable electric car.
It also makes an ideal candidate for large-scale fleet operations. Taxi companies, rental agencies, and delivery services prioritize low operational costs and durability over the luxury features that have been removed.
Either way, this step towards a more affordable vehicle is exactly in line with part of Tesla’s mission: electrifying the world. It gets more people and companies into EVs, which is exactly the goal. Tesla recently also launched a new Wall Connector aimed at company fleets.
While the firmware leak provides us a better understanding of the vehicle, it is still in development, and features and final specs can change between now and when it launches later this year.
