Tesla’s first true six-seater SUV is officially on its way to another major international market. New regulatory filings from the Korea Energy Agency, spotted by @Tslachan, suggest that the launch of the Tesla Model Y L in South Korea could be just around the corner.
The Model Y L first debuted in China last summer and has since become one of the most highly anticipated variants for families who have outgrown the standard five-seat configuration. With Tesla discontinuing the Model X later this year, the arrival of a roomier, family-focused SUV is becoming a critical part of the company’s global strategy.
Tesla's First Six-Seater
What makes the Model Y L special is that it isn't just a regular Model Y with extra seats crammed into the trunk. Instead, Tesla extended the wheelbase by 150mm and stretched the total body length by 177mm to accommodate a true 2-2-2 seating layout.
This configuration offers a spacious cabin where second-row passengers get adjustable individual seats and easy access to the third row. Beyond the extra room, the Model Y L includes a larger 16-inch central touchscreen and a suspension system tuned specifically for comfort rather than sportiness. It’s a significant departure from the standard Model Y, effectively bridging the gap between a midsize SUV and a luxury family hauler.
Interested in what's new with the Model Y L? Check out our full deep-dive from last year, where we compare it to the standard model and cover everything you need to know.
Regulatory Approval in South Korea
The latest certification data from South Korea provides a clear look at what to expect from the local version of the vehicle. According to the regulatory filing, the South Korean Model Y L will feature a massive 97.25 kWh battery pack supplied by LG Energy Solution.
The vehicle has officially been certified for energy consumption efficiency, confirming a 6-passenger seating capacity. This is usually among the final steps before a manufacturer opens the order books for a new region.
Tesla Model Y L Launch Heatmap
For the longest time, the Model Y L was a China-exclusive product, launching at a 339,000 yuan (roughly $49,000 USD) price point. However, the vehicle is finally breaking out of its home market. Tesla has already officially announced that the Model Y L is launching in Australia and New Zealand, marking its first move outside of China.
Europe might be next on the list, as the larger variant received EU type approval late last December. North American families, however, might have to wait a bit longer. Elon Musk previously said that the six-seat Model Y L wouldn’t make its way to the U.S. until "late 2026, if ever". Given the massive demand for three-row EVs in the States, many are hoping that successful launches in Australia and South Korea will convince Tesla to accelerate that timeline.
As Tesla prepares to phase out its more expensive flagship models, the Model Y L is poised to become the new "premium" standard for families wanting more luxury and space without jumping to a full-sized van or a massive truck.
