As the automotive market slowly marches towards an all-electric future, buyers and reviewers wonder when the ‘next big thing’ will inevitably make itself known. Tesla, America’s only fully electric venue, wants to be the purveyor of that market revolution, and their newly unveiled SUV, the Tesla Model Y, aims to start that revolution. Following the social and commercial success of their low-cost Model 3 sedan, the corporation expressed a desire to produce a followup which would be capable of capitalizing on the global phenomenon of the automotive market, the SUV.

CNBC estimates that by 2022, 84% of all cars produced and sold in America will be crossovers or SUV of some variety, as public consumer interest in actual sedans and saloons is waning in favor of higher ride height and greater passenger space and amenities. While the future of the car continues to move towards a world of alternative fuel, plenty of well-established automakers already produce their own all-electric models, but never quite to the appeal of the general public. The job of Tesla then is to create an image for the electric car, one that will convey a different personality to that of most fuel-conscience vehicles (see Nissan Leaf.) While plenty of hybrids and economic vehicles have a small, smart and cute appeal, Tesla’s luxury offerings have given a sleek, powerful visage to the world of zero-emissions.

Releasing in 2010, Tesla’s first in-house car, the Model S, gave a striking image as a powerful vehicle capable of blistering acceleration and smooth body design. As the years have gone on, however, the company has realized that despite the otherworldly specs of its higher-end cars, people wanted a cheaper, far more affordable model that could still fit the profile of a Tesla vehicle, performance and all.

Enter the Model 3 which received a full release on July 1st of last year, that has had its own tumultuous production, having been delayed over a year after the expected release date. Despite its rocky start, the 3 eventually gained enough momentum to be a best-seller for Tesla, prompting them to begin designing the aforementioned Model Y.

America and the world are shifting towards a focus on the sale of SUV’s and large-platform vehicles, and the success of their previous affordable car prompted Tesla to work towards a full release of their Model Y in 2020.

Tesla Model Y starts at about $39,000 for its standard 250 mile trim, and will go up to $47,000 for the 300-mile performance package. All models will be widely distributed in late 2020.