Melbourne, Australia – Tesla has secured government approval for a six-seater, extended-wheelbase version of its popular Model Y electric SUV in Australia. The clearance, confirmed via newly published government documents, paves the way for the introduction of this larger variant to the Australian market.
Regulatory Green Light for Model Y L
The specific variant, identified by the code YL5NDB on the Australian government’s ROVER approval website, has received the necessary regulatory clearance. This official approval suggests that Tesla is on track to offer the expanded Model Y configuration to Australian consumers.
According to documents obtained by Drive, the Model Y L has been approved in Australia exclusively as a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive model. While Tesla has not yet announced an official launch date, vehicles typically receive Australian sales approval several months prior to their official market introduction.
BREAKING: Tesla Model Y L (6 seater) has been approved for sale in Australia!!
The ROVER website now lists variant YL5NDB under approved vehicle types. Hopefully not long now! pic.twitter.com/50NfJBKnwi— Rob Grieves 🇦🇺 (@RobGrieves) February 23, 2026
Design and Dimensions of the Extended Model Y
The Model Y L distinguishes itself from the standard Model Y through its increased dimensions, specifically designed to accommodate a six-seat layout. It features two seats in each of the three rows.
Overall, the Model Y L measures 4969mm in length, making it 177mm longer than the conventional Model Y. Its wheelbase has also been extended by 150mm, reaching a total of 3040mm.
Powertrain and Battery Specifications
Australian approval documents indicate that the Model Y L will utilise the same nickel-manganese-cobalt battery pack found in the regular Model Y Long Range. This battery is expected to have a gross capacity of approximately 84kWh, with a usable capacity of around 82kWh.
Government filings list the official output at 378kW. However, the real-world peak power output may vary from this figure.
Interior Features and Comfort Enhancements
Inside, the Model Y L introduces significant upgrades focused on passenger comfort and versatility. The standard second-row bench seat is replaced by two captain’s chairs. These individual seats offer enhanced comfort features, including heating, ventilation, and power adjustment.
Further enhancing passenger comfort, the third-row seats are also equipped with heating. These interior enhancements aim to provide a more premium and adaptable cabin experience for families and groups.
Additional Upgrades and Australian Market Configuration
Beyond the seating configuration, Drive reports that the Model Y L will include several additional premium features. An 18-speaker sound system is expected to be standard, delivering an immersive audio experience for all occupants.
The front seats are also redesigned with single-piece backrests. Furthermore, the vehicle will feature continuously variable shock absorbers, which can adjust damping forces in real-time to improve ride quality and handling.
For the Australian market, the only wheel option specified in the approval documents is 19-inch wheels, suggesting a focus on balancing comfort and efficiency.
Potential Range and European Market Context
In European markets, where the Model Y L has also received approval but has not yet been launched, the variant is anticipated to achieve a WLTP range of up to 681km. This figure suggests a competitive offering in the long-range electric SUV segment.
The arrival of the six-seater Model Y L in Australia is expected to broaden Tesla’s appeal, catering to a segment of the market that requires greater passenger capacity and comfort.