Was Tesla's Budget Model 2 Recently Seen Out in the Open? | Carscoops

      Rumors are swirling about Tesla's upcoming budget model, so let's clarify the speculation and what we know so far.

      Tesla is aiming to release a more affordable model by late this year or early 2026. A drone pilot flying over one of Tesla’s factories may have caught sight of a prototype in development. This mystery vehicle appears to be missing both doors and a roof, indicating that it is still in the early stages of design.

      Tesla has always excelled at keeping the public guessing, but sometimes, even the most secretive plans can be unveiled by a drone with a zoom lens. Recent footage from above Tesla’s Fremont factory may have revealed something the company intended to keep hidden for a while longer.

      It’s widely known that Tesla is working hard to introduce a more budget-friendly car, as confirmed by company officials, including Elon Musk. It appears a development prototype was spotted in plain view among other vehicles without any coverings. The rumor mill is in full swing, so it’s time to sift through what’s factual and what might be mere speculation.

      As noted by Teslarati, the drone footage included below showcases a vehicle that seems distinct from Tesla’s current range. It features a narrower roofline and a shape that suggests a crossover style. This aligns with Tesla VP of Vehicle Engineering Lars Moravy’s comments during the Q1 2025 earnings call, where he stated that upcoming models will draw from the existing lineup while incorporating features from Tesla's next-generation platform.

      "Models launching in the coming months will be produced on our lines and will inform and shape our current cars. The key is they will be affordable, and you’ll have the option to purchase one," Moravy stated. The company also mentioned in its presentation that "Plans for new vehicles, including more affordable models, are on track for production to begin in the first half of 2025." When combined with this new sighting, it raises some interesting points for discussion.

      Captured by the YouTube channel Met God In Wilderness, the drone video reveals two noteworthy details. Firstly, it displays the aforementioned vehicle, which is intriguing not only because of its size and shape but also because it appears to be devoid of a roof and doors. While we understand that this new Tesla will likely be de-featured, this seems like a significant reduction.

      The second image shows various car bodies scattered around a lot, many of which lack complete body panels, except for an occasional hood. None appear particularly unique or remarkable, but the low image quality makes it difficult to ascertain their specifics. It's possible that one or more of them could be redesigned prototypes, including at least one featuring Falcon-wing door hinges.

      Another image reveals a covered vehicle being transported within the factory. It's apparent that Tesla is developing something new. The pressing question is what that "something" is, with speculation suggesting it might be a more basic version of the Model Y, perhaps even a slightly smaller iteration.

      The Rumor Mill

      Since the announcement of a more compact, affordable Tesla, speculation worldwide has run wild regarding its exact features. In China, where a significant portion of Tesla’s production and sales occurs, social media and news outlets claim to have insights into what is expected. Internally referred to as “E80,” this new Tesla is essentially a budget Model Y.

      Reports indicate it could feature a 50-55 kWh battery, smaller tires, no panoramic glass roof, fabric seating, fewer speakers, and reduced amenities. This could mean the omission of features like ambient lighting, heated seats, and acoustic glass designed to block external noise. This approach makes logical sense for Tesla, considering that while its lineup might be feeling somewhat outdated, introducing a low-cost Model Y priced around $30,000 could attract consumer interest.

      Let’s approach this with caution. There’s no definitive way to verify what we are observing. The drone footage is limited and captured from a significant distance, making it challenging to confirm any details. What is evident, however, is that the visuals, together with Tesla’s statements about future offerings, suggest an interesting coincidence. Is this the Model 2 or another name Tesla might use? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

      Screenshot Met God In Wilderness.