Something we strangely did not see last night:
What do you do with a product that sells itself and would cannibalize the sales of your other models? You downplay it.
Compare last night's show to Tesla's past model introductions. There is no flashiness about the presentation, no introduction from JB, Franz or other members of the design team, no Blankenship to sweeten up the dialogue, no props, actors or flashy pyrotechnics. It's so damn different from other automakers' car shows, even Tesla's own.
Instead, you bring out the nerdy, awkward, messy-haired CEO speaking in choppy, seemingly unrehearsed impromptu. He spends the majority of the time speaking about the other car models and history of the company, and only about six minutes for the new entrant itself.
An awesome
25 second video of a gorgeous, shiny Deep Blue Metallic Model Y, strangely enough, is given zero time in a 30+ minute presentation.
And once the car finally rolls in, all the lights are oddly dim, no turntable to seduce us with the Y's Porsche-like curves, and video footage is positioned in such a way that it highlights the least flattering angles of the car or make it seem virtually indistinguishable from the Model 3.
Watching last night's presentation was like watching the Matrix. The first time through was a total head scratcher. The second and third time through, I finally got it and saw the magic and awesomeness behind the I-just-don't-get-it layer:
The Model Y is the more perfect version of the Model 3!
Tesla's anti-selling presentation strategy worked. It was purposefully done, brilliantly executed, and was the quintessential opposite of the flashy new car smoke-and-mirrors show. As a Tesla fanboy, I was a totally duped because for years I had overly hyped anticipation of that mystery half-and-half Frankenstein clay model under a black sheet that was supposed to have falcon wing doors like the X, include spaceship controls, be this legendary automotive disruptor, and yet be more affordable to the masses... If the Model 3 were Princess Leia, the Model Y would be her twin brother Luke Skywalker, the chosen one who would bring balance to the Force in the Auto Industry. The automotive disruptor of disruptors deserved a most impressive introduction!
Imagine if Tesla had introduced the Y in the same fashion as they had presented the Next Gen Roadster. Imagine if the Y were revealed only months instead of
years after the 3. IMHO there'd be a lot less disappointment and criticism within this forum.
My expectations for the Model Y unveiling had been very high, like most of us here, and indeed the presentation was a huge letdown. But taking a closer look at the car itself, the Model Y is simply amazing.
Today I have decided... My future Loni Sparks shall be a Model Y!