Tesla slims down to beat traffic and save costs

Ever fancied a Tesla but thought it was a bit too…. wide? An ambitious start-up from Slovenia thinks it has a genius answer – a slimmed-down and cheaper version of the Model Y called the Einstein Starlight.

The company’s young entrepreneurs have launched a bid for funds to start building a narrow version of the Tesla Model Y which will be capable of filtering through traffic jams like a motorbike. The cars will also be able to drive two abreast in a lane, saving space on crowded roads.

Starlight loses two seats compared to Tesla

The Starlight’s width is 1,400mm – almost exactly the same as a classic Mini, although the length will be unchanged from the Tesla. According to the company’s calculations it will still be stable through corners because of the Tesla’s low centre of gravity. The air suspension will also allow the car to adjust itself so it doesn’t lean.

Despite the narrow dimensions, the Starlight will be able to carry three passengers and a reasonable amount of luggage in a conventional boot.

Narrow profile could allow two Starlights to drive in one lane

Einstein believe they will be able to slim down the costs as well as the car. According to the company’s calculations, it will be able to shave around $10,000 (£8,000) from the price of a Model Y, making the expected cost around £37,000. 

A big factor in the cost saving will be the smaller battery. Despite shrinking the powerpack by 35%, the Einstein boffins believe the range will be the same as the standard Model Y because of better aerodynamics and lower weight. 

Lower weight and less aerodynamic drag help keep the Tesla's range, despite smaller battery

Other major components will be carried over unchanged to maintain the Tesla’s safety critical structure and systems, including the autonomous drive technology. 

Before you rush to get an order in though, the Starlight faces some pretty big obstacles. The biggest is to get the approval of Tesla to use its cars. Einstein’s founder Tine Rusc told us: “We haven't had any interest from Tesla yet. We are trying really hard to get Elon's contact, so we get some sort of agreement with Tesla and move to the prototype phase as soon as possible.”

Elon, if you are reading this, will you give Einstein a slim chance?

Einstein’s founder Tine Rusc hopes Elon will get in touch