Is This the Worst Tesla Model Y Launch Configuration Possible?

After initially deciding to pass on the Tesla Model Y Launch Edition, I had a sudden change of heart. Call it FOMO or just bad financial decision-making, but I put down a deposit—and it turned out to be one of the worst Tesla Model Y Launch config possible in terms of value for money. Here’s why.

Tesla Model Y Launch Edition: What’s Included

To understand why my Tesla Model Y Launch config was such a bad deal, let’s break down what’s actually included in this new fully loaded version:

• Premium exterior paint options included (value: up to $2,600)
• Upgraded 20” wheels (value: $2,600)
• White premium interior (value: $1,300)
• Full Self-Driving (FSD) included (value: $11,000 CAD / $8,000 USD)
• Tow hitch included (value: $1,300)
• Speed Boost (value: $2,700)
• Mobile charging and accessories (claimed to be included)

* prices in CAD

At first glance, this seems like an amazing deal, right? That depends if you max out these options or not.

The Hidden Tesla Accessories Trick

One thing that isn’t clear when configuring your Tesla Model Y Launch Edition is the add-on accessories. When you select extra items—like floor mats, a roof rack, or an additional mobile charger—your deposit amount increases, but the overall price does not.

This means you can essentially get these accessories for free if you check them off at checkout. But guess who didn’t do that. 🤦‍♂️

Update: this has finally been verified by Tesla rep.

” Yes it will also include floor mats, roof rack, tray, charger and mobile adapter.”

Here’s what I could have added at no extra cost:

• All-weather floor mats ($345 value)
• Tesla roof rack ($615 value)
• Extra mobile charger ($380 value)
• Home charger ($580 value)

Not realizing this, I skipped them entirely, thinking they weren’t included. Possibly costly mistake. Now, I’ll need to either buy a new trunk liner or transfer the one from my 2022 Model Y.

Update: After seeing the Model Y Refresh in person, I asked a sales rep to clarify the confusion about the accessories. She confirmed they are not included. I’ll be holding on to my text message just in case Tesla decides to honor it—but I’m not getting my hopes up.

Why My Tesla Model Y Launch Configuration Was So Bad

Now that we know what’s included, let’s talk about how I completely wasted money on this configuration.

@myevtrips Pressure of FOMO + looming price hikes in Canada made me configure what’s probably the worst value Model Y out there 😬 Should I pull the trigger or walk away? Let me know what you think! #Tesla #ModelY #ModelYRefresh #TeslaModelY #TeslaModelYJuniper #ModelYJuniper #BadDecisions #PriceHike #TeslaLife #ElectricCar #EV #teslatok #teslacanada #modelylaunch #launchedition #CarConfigurations #FOMO ♬ It's Lookin' Good – Becca Lynn

1. I Chose the Free Paint, Even Though I Paid for Premium

The Tesla Model Y Launch Edition includes any paint color at no extra cost. Most buyers would go for a premium option like Ultra Red ($2,600 value), but I went with Stealth Grey—which I genuinely prefer—but that means I paid for something I didn’t take advantage of.

2. I Prefer the 19” Wheels, But Paid for 20” Instead

The Tesla Model Y Launch Edition comes with upgraded 20″ wheels ($2,600 value), but I actually prefer the 19″ wheels for their looks, better range, and ride comfort. Yet, I was forced to pay for wheels I don’t even want.

3. I Missed Out on the White Interior Upgrade

The white premium interior ($1,300 value) was included, but by the time I placed my order, it was sold out. Tesla still charged the full price, meaning I paid for the upgrade without actually getting it.

4. The Full Self-Driving (FSD) Dilemma

The Tesla Model Y Launch Edition includes FSD ($12,800 CAD / $8,000 USD). While I’ve tested it many times and like it for road trips, I don’t plan on keeping this car long-term.

Instead of buying it outright, I could’ve subscribed for $100/month in Canada. This means I would need to drive with FSD enabled for 128 months (10+ years!) to break even—not a great deal considering I plan to sell the car within a couple of years.

On top of all that, purchasing FSD up front tax it onto the final price, meaning you’re paying taxes as well on that lump sum. Also, if you want to buy it outright, you can purchase it after the fact using a credit card and get some serious points for it.

Is the Model Y Launch Edition Worth It?

If you’re looking for the absolute best value, the Model Y Launch Edition may not be the right choice. While it offers premium upgrades at a bundled price, you’re locked into options you might not even want. If you don’t care for FSD or specific accessories, waiting for the refreshed Model Y or considering a lightly used model might be the smarter move.

The upcoming Model Y refresh is rumored to have improved efficiency and new tech features. Considering my experience renting a Model 3 Standard Range for a Swiss Alps EV road trip, I know how important range and efficiency are for long-distance travel.

Tesla Model Y Sales Numbers & Market Trends

Tesla has been dominating the EV market, and the Model Y is a major success.

• The Tesla Model Y was the best-selling car in the world in 2023, surpassing the Toyota Corolla, with over 1.2 million units sold (source).
• Tesla’s Q4 2023 earnings report confirmed over 485,000 Model Y deliveries in just three months (Tesla Investor Relations).
• The Launch Edition is a strategic move to push sales before the full Tesla Model Y refresh line arrives later this year.

Should I Cancel My Tesla Model Y Launch Order?

After realizing how badly I configured my order, I reached out to Tesla to see if I could make changes. The rep confirmed I could switch the paint and wheels, no problem. Still waiting to here back on the accessories I missed out on.

Now, I’m debating whether to cancel my order, losing my $250 deposit, or keep it and try to sell my 2022 Tesla Model Y in the used market. With potential tariffs on Chinese-made EVs in Canada, Model Y resale values might actually go up.

Tesla could also increase prices soon, making my locked-in price a slight advantage. And honestly, this whole situation has only strengthened my hesitation about continuing to support Elon Musk and his antics.

What Should You Do? Learn from My Mistakes

If you’re considering buying the Tesla Model Y Launch Edition, don’t be like me. Here’s what I’d recommend:

• Only get FSD if you plan on keeping the car long-term. Otherwise, just subscribe when needed.
• Pick the most expensive included options (paint, wheels, interior) to maximize resale value.
• Select all accessories at checkout, since they don’t increase the final price.
• If you want a different Tesla Model Y refresh configuration, wait. The updated Model Y with new features is coming soon.

That said…YOLO MOFO 😆

Final Thoughts + Next Steps

Whether I cancel my order or stick with it, one thing’s for sure—this was a lesson in impulse buying gone wrong. If you’re shopping for a Tesla Model Y Launch Edition, I hope this helps you avoid making the same costly mistakes.