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Tesla Model Y vs Tesla Model 3: Which car is better for Uber driving?
The new Tesla Model Y is finally available so let’s see how it compares to the popular Model 3 for PCO driving.
| Tesla Model 3 | Tesla Model Y | |
| Car type | Saloon | SUV |
| Length (mm) x Width (mm) x Height (mm) | 4,694 x 2,088 x 1,443 | 4,751 x 2,129 x 1,624 |
| Total cargo volume with 5 passengers | 649 L | 971 L |
| Rear legroom (mm) | 894 | 1,029 |
| Range WLTP | 305 miles | 283 miles |
| Charge time(10 to 80% at 50kW) | 90 mins | 72 mins |
| Acceleration(0-60 mph) | 5.8 secs | 6.6 secs |
| Price*(weekly/downpayment) | £295/£1,499 | £309/£1,499 |
| * To be eligible for a Tesla from Otto Car, you must be aged 30+ with a good driving record and a minimum of one year PCO driving experience. See website for full terms. |
Every PCO driver is tempted by the idea of owning a Tesla. You get cutting-edge technology and a superb driving experience that makes each journey feel like fun, even though it is your place of work.
The Tesla Model 3 is the PCO car to beat and yet the Model Y is already the best-selling new car in the world for several good reasons. You probably want to know what each one offers the Uber driver in London and so this post will explore these two Tesla cars side-by-side from that specific point of view.
What’s the difference between the Tesla Model Y and Model 3?
Yes, the Tesla Model 3 is a fantastic PCO car. However, it is a saloon – which means it has a proper boot, whereas the Model Y is an electric SUV, with a hatchback-style tailgate that makes it easier to load bags.
The new Tesla is slightly longer and wider but the obvious differences are its height and extra space for cargo room. You will immediately notice this head space and that you can fit more rider luggage for airport runs.
If you compare the total cargo volume of each car with 5 passengers, including the trunk at the front, you will find that the Tesla Model Y provides about fifty per cent more storage space than the Model 3.
The Model Y also has a glass roof that is now a single piece of glass rather than two, which adds to the feeling of space. Oddly, there is no rear parcel-shelf but don’t worry about this because the dark glass stops people from peeking into the boot from outside.
Let’s take a closer look at both cars with our new 360 tours:
Tesla Model 3
Tesla Model Y
Which Tesla is the best electric vehicle for PCO driving?
Each of these PCO cars is excellent to drive. They both deliver impressive acceleration plus the precise steering and smooth braking which make Tesla so famous. You also get the same digital tricks, such as Autopark or Sentry Mode, which auto-records if anyone damages the car, even if it’s switched off.
To be fair, the sportier shape of the Tesla Model 3 delivers a little more performance than the Tesla Model Y. For example, it’s slightly less likely to lean while taking a corner at speed and the driver’s seat has a bit more side-support. It’s also a quieter ride overall.
The Model Y gives you slightly more range and is quicker to recharge but there is not much in it. If you use the Tesla Supercharger network, the difference in time for charging either electric car is very small.
Which Tesla is more practical for Uber drivers?
The Model Y feels like it was designed to make life easier for a private-hire driver. That giant cargo space is a blessing – and it has secret tricks too. You can instantly fold-down each of the rear seats fully flat by pressing a quick-release button in the boot. You can even do this in a 40/20/40 split to fit narrow objects, such as skis, directly between two riders in the back along the top of the rear armrest.
Backseat passengers also get a bit more legroom – 135mm to be precise – and all three of the rear seats in the Model Y are now heated. This will help you to get tips from riders with awkward loads.
What versions of the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 do Otto Car sell?
As with every PCO car, Otto is careful to offer only sensible options. We find the sweet spot in terms of balancing cost and the practical working life of an Uber driver in London. This is why we do not sell the Performance nor the All-Wheel Drive versions of the Tesla Model Y and Model 3. The standard models are perfect.
Overall verdict
Every PCO car has its strengths – and that is definitely the case here. The Model 3 performance makes it an excellent choice of electric vehicle. Its smooth ride quality and long range still have plenty of fans among Uber drivers and in the car reviews.
That said, the Model Y gives you some extra storage and headspace too. It’s also a great talking-point with Uber riders who have not seen the newest Tesla on the road.
Whether you’re a new PCO driver or you’ve been driving for a couple of years, Rent 2 Buy + is the hassle-free ownership plan that provides everything at one simple price. Used Tesla Model 3 is also available on Rent 2 Buy +, so drivers can own this popular PCO car easier and quicker.
The Otto Car team is always happy to advise its family of drivers and help you make a career plan. Drop into any of our five London hubs to discuss which option makes the most sense for you. In particular, the Hendon hub has a huge showroom, with our widest selection of PCO cars. See you there.
Want to learn more?
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