The Tesla Model Y Performance has undergone changes to its rear brake system, according to a report from ZEVcentric. The electric car maker switched suppliers for the rear brakes on the Model Y Performance last summer, opting for smaller calipers from Mando rather than the high-performance Brembo brakes that were previously used. The rotor diameter of the new calipers remains the same as the Model Y Long Range, but is 2 millimeters thicker to extend its life.
However, in an effort to conceal the downgrade, Tesla decided to hide the new calipers behind plastic covers, which closely resemble the original Brembo calipers. Although they may fool some at a distance, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that the covers have a different texture and finish compared to the front calipers. Furthermore, a simple flick of the cover will reveal that they are actually made of plastic, similar to cheap caliper covers that can be purchased online.
As we took delivery of our 2023 Model Y last month. At some point Tesla decided to put caliper covers on the Performance Y. What does that mean? It's a smaller caliper and a smaller rotor which is the same on LR. So now you are just paying for the same brakes just red. pic.twitter.com/FXinpySrTu
— ZEVcentric (@ZEVcentric) January 8, 2023
Despite the change, Tesla has not updated the wording on its official website, which still lists the Model Y Performance as having "Performance Brakes." While the majority of a car's braking is done through the front axle, it remains to be seen how the new rear calipers will affect real-world braking performance.
Source: InsideEVs
