Tesla Philippines is taking part in this year’s Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), where the electric vehicle brand is showcasing its latest technologies and vehicles to the local market. Among the highlights at its display is the new Tesla Model Y L, alongside the company’s announcement that Grok AI integration is now officially rolling out to its local models.
The Model Y L serves as a more spacious version of Tesla’s best-selling electric crossover, adding a longer body and a three-row seating configuration aimed at families and buyers looking for additional practicality. The vehicle adopts a six-seat layout with second-row captain’s chairs, giving it a more premium interior arrangement compared to the standard five-seat Model Y currently sold in several markets.
Tesla says the longer wheelbase allows for improved passenger and cargo space. The vehicle also features upgraded cabin equipment, including larger infotainment displays, additional USB-C charging ports, improved rear-seat amenities, and enhanced comfort features. Under the skin, the Model Y L retains Tesla’s dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup and long-range battery technology, with a claimed driving range of up to 681 km.
While the Model Y L is drawing attention on the show floor, Tesla Philippines’ confirmation regarding Grok AI availability is also becoming one of the brand’s major announcements at PIMS. Grok is an artificial intelligence assistant developed by xAI, the artificial intelligence company founded by Elon Musk. The system is integrated directly into Tesla’s infotainment interface and is designed to function as a conversational AI assistant inside the vehicle.
According to Tesla, the system is now available locally through an over-the-air software update carrying version 2026.20.200++. The company added that the rollout has already begun and is expected to reach all eligible Tesla vehicles in the Philippines within the next few days. Unlike traditional voice-command systems that rely mainly on fixed commands, Grok AI is built around generative artificial intelligence technology. This allows it to respond in a more natural and conversational manner when interacting with drivers and passengers.
Tesla added that the system can answer questions, provide information, assist with vehicle-related functions, and engage in real-time conversational interaction through voice prompts. Depending on software support and regional availability, Grok AI may also be capable of internet-connected responses, contextual conversations, and personalized interactions while inside the vehicle.
Autocar’s Take
Tesla’s latest presentation at PIMS shows how the conversation around cars is gradually shifting from hardware alone to the overall digital experience inside the vehicle. While larger cabins, added seating, and long driving range remain important selling points for models like the Model Y L, software updates are now becoming part of what defines a modern car brand.
The arrival of Grok AI in the Philippines also highlights how quickly global automotive technologies can now reach local customers through over-the-air updates. Instead of waiting for a new model cycle, owners can receive entirely new features directly through the vehicle itself, something that continues to reshape expectations in the automotive industry.
