The first Tesla Model Y compact SUVs are being delivered to customers in the US, just over a year since it was unveiled.

Tesla boss Elon Musk believes the Model Y will be a more successful car than the Model 3, which has already proven to be a hit. 

In New Zealand, 74 Model 3 sedans have already been sold this year, with 104 delivered here since late August, 2019.

The top of the range Model Y Performance can go from 0-100km/h in 3.5 seconds with a range of 500km. It, and the mid-spec Long Range AWD version, are the first two models on sale with the standard version to appear in 2021. 

The Model Y is similar to the Model 3 but rides higher, has a motorised hatch door and the option of a third row of “shot-gun” style seats.