Tesla launches second Model Y wheel and tire winter package

Tesla is now launching a second Model Y wheel and tire winter package — giving owners more options before the winter starts.

As we reported last week, as a California-based company, Tesla has often been criticized for addressing concerns from owners living in colder climates as a second thought.

That has often materialized itself through a lack of or last-minute availability of winter tires directly from Tesla.

With Model Y, Tesla has been moving a little faster.

Last week, the automaker launched the “Model Y 19″ Gemini Wheel and Winter Tire Package.”

Now Tesla is following up with the “Model Y 20″ Induction Wheel and Winter Tire Package”:

“Model Y 20″ Induction Wheel and Winter Tire Package provides maximum safety and grip when driving in wet or dry conditions and on icy or snow-covered roads. The winter package guarantees a high level of traction, stability, and braking efficiency under 45° F, so you can enjoy wherever you drive with confidence and comfort.”

Here are pictures of the wheel and tire package from Tesla’s website:

As we reported last week, those packages are good for people who prefer not to change tires on their existing wheels.

However, we recommend smaller wheels for winter tires for efficiency reasons.

For those who want to save some money, you can buy the 255/45R19 PIRELLI WINTER SOTTOZERO (Amazon US and Amazon Canada) tires separately and have them installed on your existing Gemini wheels, which come standard with Model Y.

Based on current pricing, you’d save ~$2,500 in the US and ~$2,800 in Canada.

The Pirelli Sottozero have long been preferred winter tires for Tesla owners since they provide a good balance between grip and efficiency to retain a decent range in winter.

If your Model Y is sporting bigger than 19″ wheels with summer/all-season tires, like those 20″ induction wheels, instead of buying this package, I would recommend downgrading to 19″ for the winter with the Tesla Gemini wheels.

While you are preparing your Model Y for the winter, we also recommend getting some floormats for the winter. The Super Liner set for Model Y comes to me highly recommended.

For a cheaper yet still good rubber option, the Tough Pro kit for Model Y has been popular. Right now, the full set with trunk and frunk mats costs just $150 — about $110 cheaper than the Super Liner.

As for Model 3 drivers, you can visit our winter guide for more information on how to prepare your electric vehicle for the cold weather.