Tesla’s cheaper Model Y finally breaks cover

Here is a 182-word summary of the news article: Tesla has unveiled a cheaper version of its Model Y electric vehicle, expected to launch next year. The new model was recently spotted uncamouflaged in Texas, revealing several cost-cutting changes. These include the removal of features like the front and rear light bars, power mirror folding, second-row display, and glass roof. Tesla is also swapping out the 19-inch wheels for smaller 18-inch versions. According to leaked information, the new Model Y will come in all-wheel and rear-wheel drive options, with a starting price of $39,999 - a significant reduction from the current $45,000 base model. However, this is still far from the promised $25,000 "Model 2" EV that was previously planned but canceled. The cost-saving measures raise questions about the vehicle's autonomous driving capabilities, as features like cameras and sensors could be removed. Tesla will likely rely on its in-house developed lithium-iron-phosphate batteries to further reduce costs. While the cheaper Model Y may help bridge the gap to Tesla's self-driving and robotics ambitions, it remains to be seen if customers will accept a more stripped-down version of the existing model.