Brand new Tesla Model Y launch series was found in a junkyard with only 106 miles on the clock
- This is a sad sight: a brand new Tesla Model Y launch series in a junkyard
- It only has 106 miles on the clock and can run and drive
- It’s been rear-ended and requires extensive repairs and replacements
Published on Apr 13, 2025 at 4:24 PM (UTC+4)
by Daisy Edwards
Last updated on May 15, 2025 at 7:28 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Emma Matthews
There’s a brand new Tesla Model Y launch series sitting in a junkyard in Texas with only 106 miles on the clock.
It’s a truly depressing sight, the Tesla Model Y Launch series has barely begun US deliveries, but one is already living in a junkyard with barely any miles on the clock.
Looking at it from a more positive perspective, this could be the way to get your hands on a cheap, practically brand new Tesla Model Y Launch series without breaking the bank.
It requires some heavy repairs and replacements, so is this the bargain of the century, or a massive and expensive project, which could have you wondering: should I have just bought a new one?
EXPLORE SBX CARS – Supercar auctions starting soon powered by Supercar Blondie
This brand new Tesla Model Y launch series lives in the junkyard
Traditionally, the junkyard is the place where old cars go, not a brand new, highly anticipated launch that’s hardly been driven.
Somehow, this 2026 Tesla Model Y launch series has moved into a Texas junkyard. But what’s worse is that it’s only got 106 miles on the clock.
It looks like the Model Y rolled straight out of Tesla’s Austin Gigafactory and was almost immediately rear-ended. Just like that, the EV was doomed to the junkyard, even though it’s just a baby.
The damage was significant enough that the new owner decided it should be scrapped. But it could be a bit of a hidden gem for someone willing to put the effort into doing it up.
Gigacasting may be this Tesla’s downfall
The Tesla Model Y that we’re focusing on is being sold through Copart in San Antonio, Texas.
The listing states that the EV can run and drive, which is great. But in addition to the severe rear-end damage, there are also minor dents and scratches, which count as secondary damage.
If you purchase the Tesla Model Y Launch Series, it needs a new tailgate, light bar, taillights and a rear bumper. It also looks as though the EV could use new rear quarter panels too.
In order to save money, Tesla uses ‘gigacasting’ to construct its EVs, which means that the whole rear portion of the vehicle is created out of a single piece.
And that means you’d have to take it to Tesla itself or a specialist shop to repair it.
If it seems like a bit too much of a headache, there are plenty of other EVs available – brand new – for potentially less than this smashed up EV with all the repairs it requires.
Daisy is a technology journalist, covering artificial intelligence, consumer tech, Apple news, cryptocurrency, digital business, and emerging technologies. Since joining the team in 2025, she has reported on everything from AI-powered startups and major iOS updates to viral tech hacks and the latest developments in the digital economy. Drawing on her background in automotive journalism and a degree in History and Journalism from Goldsmiths, University of London, Daisy specializes in breaking down complex technology stories into clear, engaging reporting for a global audience. Her work focuses on the products, platforms, and innovations that are transforming the way people work, communicate, and interact with technology. Daisy has gained first-hand access to some of the world's most talked-about technologies and innovators, including meeting Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot during its first European appearance in London. She has also discussed the future of space exploration with an astronaut, bringing unique insights and real-world perspectives to her coverage of emerging technology.
