Ride the Lightning: Tesla and EV Podcast

Episode 502: Out With the Old (Model Y), in With the New (Model Y)

Mar 16, 2025

Tesla has discontinued custom orders for the classic Model Y, marking the transition to its new generation. Exciting financing options for the Model 3, including a zero-percent loan, are unveiled. The Cybertruck's potential launch in Australia is on the horizon, while Rivian steps up with a buyback program for stranded Fisker Ocean owners. The podcast also dives into quirky EV innovations, like USPS delivery vehicles and the joy of personalizing Tesla features, all with plenty of listener interaction and insights on Tesla's future.

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INSIGHT

Model Y Transition

Tesla discontinued custom orders for the original Model Y.
They offer discounts on remaining inventory while new Model Y orders are limited to pricier configurations.

ADVICE

Best Value Model Y

Buy an old Model Y from existing inventory for the best value.
Discounts are available while supplies last.

INSIGHT

Model 3 Incentive

Tesla offers 0% financing for up to five years on new Model 3s.
This makes the car more affordable, especially with the $7,500 tax credit.

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Tesla is no longer offering custom orders for the classic Model Y, signaling the end of the line for the first generation of the world’s best-selling vehicle and the beginning of its second generation. Plus: Model 3 gets an impressive financing incentive, Cybertruck might finally be heading Down Under, Rivian is extending a hand to orphaned Fisker Ocean owners, and more! NOTE: The non-Tesla EV segment runs from 30:48-41:55 if you'd prefer to skip it.

If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier!

FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off your Model 3 or classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014

And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752.

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P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at https://everyamp.com/RTL/ (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).