The app on four wheels

Tesla Model Y Rear Wheel Drive

- By ERIC TIPAN

There is a learning curve when dealing with new vehicles, and with electrified models, the fewer common parts they share with a conventional car, the steeper the curve is. But don't get intimidated. Think of it like learning to use a new phone.

Take the battery-electric Model Y, for example. Instead of a key fob, it comes with a card. Simply tap on a specific surface to unlock and start the vehicle. A paired mobile device with the Tesla app installed will work just the same.

On my first day with the Model Y, I headed out very early, so it was dark. I still hadn't paired my iPhone, so it took a minute to find the spot in the B-pillar to tap the key card and unlock the Model Y.

Inside, it is more spacious than rivals in the compact crossover SUV segment. Without the typical trappings of conventional vehicles — such as an engine, transmission tunnel, and instrument panel — the dashboard is positioned forward for a roomier cabin.

Of all the fully-electric vehicles I have driven, the Model Y has the cleanest layout. Tesla put (almost) all controls on the 15.4-inch central touchscreen, including the aircon, side mirrors, etc. The result is a clutter-free design offering great forward visibility. It just gets trickier to adjust the temperature or the side mirror on the fly. I had to take my eyes off the road, split-second at a time, to navigate the menu.