The Tesla Model Y was conceived at the time as a sort of SUV version of the successful Model 3 sedan, with which it shares the vast majority of its parts. However, Tesla was not limited to increasing the height of the vehicle body during its development, but also introduced a series of improvements to be able to offer a more polished product than the Model 3.
Beyond the benefits derived from its SUV bodywork (more significant interior space, up to seven seats distributed in three rows of seats, a larger boot, a practical door with an electric opening, etc.), we found ourselves with better details. These details include rear doors with an emergency manual opening (in Model 3 it is only in the front ones), a wireless charger for smartphones, USB-C charging sockets, etc.
Another relevant change was the inclusion of a new lower rear structure, which is made up of some seventy stamped steel parts welded together in Model 3. In Model Y, however, a considerable casting machine is used to create that same structure. Thanks to which the number of components is reduced to just two large pieces of aluminum.
Separate mention deserves the addition of a heat pump. An element that many users missed in the Model S, Model X, and Model 3, as it allows a lower energy expenditure when using heating compared to a classic resistance system. On paper, this should enable Model Y to improve its efficiency in cold weather compared to Model 3.
Now, the YouTube channel JerryRigEverything has verified that Tesla has introduced several more improvements in the Model Y so that owners who reside in cold climates have a more convenient use experience. They have created a simple but effective system to break the ice of the door handles and heated charging port.
On the Model 3, the door handles embedded in the bodywork get stuck when frozen in cold weather. However, on the Model Y, despite being visually identical, they can be physically pressed at both ends, making it easier to break through the accumulated ice. As for the heated charging socket, this will allow users to plug and unplug their vehicles despite the ice comfortably.