Move over, Model 3: 2023 Tesla Model Y records huge month of sales as electric car brand tweaks pricing yet again

Tesla Australia’s pricing has been tweaked again as the brand records a huge month of deliveries for its popular Model Y electric car.

The Tesla Model Y, a mid-size SUV and cousin to the Model 3 sedan, chalked up more than a third of its sales this year so far in May alone, with 3178 deliveries last month leading to a total this year to the end of May of 8442 sales.

The single month of sales not only accounts for 38 per cent of the Model Ys delivered this year so far, but puts it ahead of the Model 3 by 1880 sales - the Model 3 has chalked up 10,117 sales this year so far, though - but the Model Y also made the podium of best-selling cars in May.

The Toyota HiLux was the best-seller in May with 5772 sales, with the Ford Ranger second at 4110.

The Toyota RAV4, which remains immensely popular but suffers long wait times, sold 2616 and remains the nation’s favourite passenger car this year so far at 10,665 sales, just ahead of the Model 3.

The huge delivery of Model Ys - which may not be replicated next month given the electric car brand’s supply comes in waves - comes as the brand adjusts its pricing in Australia slightly.

The Tesla Model Y chalked up more than a third of its sales this year so far in May alone. (Image: Tom White)

The brand has increased its base model and Long Range pricing by $400, making the entry price for a Model 3 $61,300 before on-roads, and a Y from $69,300.

The top-spec Performance variant of each has had a price bump too, though the brand doesn’t include LCT in its pricing.

The Model 3 Performance now costs $87,300 with LCT included, or $520 more than before. For Model Y, pricing is now effectively $98,415, also a $520 increase.

The Model 3 has chalked up 10,117 sales this year so far. (Image: Tom White)

2023 Tesla Model 3 pricing before on-road costs

2023 Tesla Model Y pricing before on-road costs