Tesla Model Y L: Is This the Ultimate Tesla for Camping?
The Tesla Model Y L is another all-new version of the Model Y launched by Tesla in 2025, following the Model Y Juniper. It debuted first in the Chinese market and is primarily targeted at "family" users. It features a six-seat layout, all-wheel drive, and continuously variable damping shock absorbers. It boasts a range of 751 km (CLTC standard), accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, and starts at a price of 339,000 RMB (approximately $47,200 USD).
Beyond that, rear privacy glass, larger vehicle dimensions, 18 speakers, and better-contoured seats sufficiently demonstrate Tesla's efforts to cater to "family" users, making it more comfortable and no longer a "bare shell" (basic interior). So, is the Model Y L an even more suitable Tesla for camping?
1. Storage Space
The Model Y L is positioned for "family" users, so storage space is particularly important. The interior space of the Tesla Model Y has always been a leader among electric SUVs in its class, offering more spacious storage within the same footprint to carry the necessary equipment for family camping. The Model Y L is no exception; the new car's dimensions have been comprehensively upgraded to 4976*1920*1668 mm (LWH) with a wheelbase of 3040 mm, meeting the standards of a mid-to-large-size SUV. Compared to the standard version (4750*1921*1624 mm, common specs), it is 226 mm longer, 44 mm taller, and has a 150 mm longer wheelbase. Like the previous Model Y, it has a frunk (front trunk) and a sub-trunk of comparable size.
However, Tesla added a little "thoughtful detail" to the trunk design this time. The sub-trunk cover plate features a magnetic attachment function. When you open the sub-trunk cover, the main trunk cover can magnetically attach to magnets located behind the third-row seats, making it more convenient to access items in the sub-trunk. Additionally, the sub-trunk cover itself has a special design intended to help create a "perfectly flat" Tesla bed.
Because the Model Y L has a 6-seat layout, with all three rows in use, the depth of the trunk is less than 500 mm, only enough for a 24-inch suitcase and some other small items. However, after folding down the third-row seats, and thanks to its larger overall size compared to the standard Model Y, the cargo space is also larger. Official data indicates the trunk storage space increases from the original 2138 liters to 2539 liters. This fully meets the storage needs of a family of four going camping, allowing you to "pack up" and take camping chairs, tables, a mattress, an awning, a tent, food, and more.
2. The "Perfectly Flat" Tesla Bed
Previous versions of the Model Y were not entirely satisfactory for Tesla camping enthusiasts because after folding the rear seats, there was an angle of approximately 10 degrees between the seatbacks and the trunk floor. For owners accustomed to sleeping at home, this was unacceptable. Many Tesla owners resorted to cutting seat stoppers, removing rear seat cushions, or using wedge-shaped foam pads to fill the gap, hoping to eliminate the incline and achieve a perfectly flat Tesla bed. These methods were undoubtedly troublesome and technically challenging. But on the new Model Y L, these issues are resolved because it can achieve a "perfectly flat" Tesla bed.
When you electronically fold down the second and third rows of the Tesla Model Y L, you might be surprised to find it's not a perfectly flat cargo bed immediately – a small trick is needed. On both sides of the Model Y L's sub-trunk, there are two supports. You need to erect these supports and then flip the sub-trunk cover plate over and place it on top of them. At this point, you will get a "perfectly flat" Tesla trunk bed. Although there is a gap between the second and third-row seats, not forming a continuous platform, you can pair it with a sufficiently comfortable and supportive Tesla mattress (like a Tesla Mattress Pro), thus creating a very comfortable sleeping space.
The Model Y L's rear windows are equipped with privacy glass, but you will still need Model Y window covers to block out all the windows to create a completely dark environment.
3. Camp Mode:
Tesla's Camp Mode is a key factor ensuring camping comfort. It maintains cabin temperature control, keeps interior lighting on, keeps the touchscreen active, powers the USB ports, all while keeping the vehicle in a low-power state. Unlike traditional vehicles where running these systems would drain the 12-volt battery, the Model Y's powerful battery pack can support extended camping activities. However, Camp Mode automatically turns off when the battery level drops below 20% to ensure enough remaining charge for driving.
Things to note in Camp Mode: Some owners have tested and found that Tesla's Camp Mode algorithm causes the vehicle to switch between air recirculation and fresh air modes repeatedly. To maintain a low carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration inside the cabin, you need to manually set the air circulation mode to fresh air. Additionally, in Camp Mode, Tesla does not automatically lock the doors. Before sleeping, you must remember to lock the vehicle using the app or the screen to avoid unexpected visitors disturbing your dreams at night.
4. Other Detailed Upgrades
Tesla undoubtedly aims to make the Model Y L its most comfortable vehicle, adding many details that enhance the owner's camping experience. The Model Y L newly features a hands-free automatic power liftgate (likely kick-to-open sensor). When you approach carrying your phone key, the vehicle will automatically open the trunk at the right moment. Imagine, when your hands are full of groceries from the supermarket and you want to put them in the car, an automatically opening trunk is exactly what you'd crave. Furthermore, the Model Y L's voice control system has been upgraded and become "smarter." Previously, it was rare to see any blogger or owner use or recommend Tesla's voice control – because it was very difficult to use. Now, Tesla's voice control should become increasingly useful. You can lie in the trunk and tell your Tesla, "Turn the AC fan down a bit, it's too loud." The Model Y L is equipped with 18 speakers and 1 subwoofer, the most speakers in any Tesla model. When camping in your Tesla, you can enjoy a more immersive movie-watching or music-listening experience because the sound quality is better.
5.Conclusion:
The Model Y L is an electric SUV more suitable for camping than the standard Model Y. It combines the strengths of all previous Model Y versions and also improves upon previously criticized issues. It offers larger storage space, a "perfectly flat" trunk bed, smarter voice control, and rear privacy glass, making it an ideal companion. Are you willing to pay for these significant upgrades?