Tesla Firmware Shows New Model Y Seat Configuration

Tesla’s latest firmware teardown (version 2025.20) has uncovered a surprise: a six‑seat configuration for the refreshed Model Y, alongside the already anticipated seven‑seat version.

Here’s what this means:

🔧 What the Firmware Reveals

• • • Tesla hacker @greentheonly discovered references to a “6-seater Model Y” in the firmware, suggesting a layout with two front seats, two in the middle row, and two in the third row.
    • The leak also includes a navigation hint of “slow down to save energy,” reinforcing the credibility of the firmware extraction method.
    • Notably, the six‑seat layout is not exclusive to China; it appears in the global firmware, pointing to a possible worldwide rollout.

  The much rumored about 6-seater Model Y made an appearance in the firmware.
  Unlikely to be China-only as some of the speculations said.

  Some weird “slow down to save energy, people typically drive this much slower here to save %%” nav suggestions.

  — green (@greentheonly) June 16, 2025

🆚 Why Introduce a Six-Seater?

• Tesla previously offered both six- and seven-seat “Legacy” Model Y layouts, but they received mixed reviews, especially concerning cramped third-row legroom.

• A six-seat design could strike a balance, providing extra seating compared to the five-seater, while leaving more space and comfort than the squished seven-seater.

• This middle ground may appeal to families seeking flexibility without the higher price tag of a Model X.

📆 What’s Coming and When

• An official seven‑seat version (presumably with power‑folding rear seats) is expected to enter production later in 2025, as confirmed by Tesla’s VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy.

• The six‑seat variant has not been officially announced, but its firmware presence suggests it’s being seriously considered.

• Earlier reports indicated the “Juniper” refresh—including updated front and rear styling, acoustic upgrades, back-seat touchscreen, and suspension enhancements—began rolling out in early 2025.

🎯 What This Means for Buyers

• The upcoming Model Y lineup is shaping up to be more versatile:

  • Five‑seat: the standard layout

  • Six‑seat: new, cross‑row flexibility, better comfort than the Legacy 7‑seater

  • Seven‑seat: returning for those needing maximum capacity

• Ideal for families or fleet operators wanting a mid-size SUV with flexible seating options without jumping to Model X pricing.

🚘 Final Take

The firmware leak isn’t just tech for tech’s sake—it signals Tesla’s broader strategy to refresh the Model Y with tailored seating for diverse needs:

• Five seats for everyday efficiency

• Six seats for a sweeter spot of space + flexibility

• Seven seats for max capacity, despite tighter quarters in the third row

We’ll likely see the six‑seat and seven‑seat layouts roll out alongside the refreshed Model Y throughout 2025, offering buyers more practical choices—and proving once again Tesla’s knack for unexpected innovation.

📝 Summary Table

In summary, Tesla’s firmware is teasing a cleverly positioned six‑seat Model Y appearing soon, backed by solid signs of a confirmed seven‑seat offering also on the way. Together, these updates mark a meaningful boost in versatility for the popular compact SUV.