The Model Y Juniper is set to launch in Europe around the same time as in China, as Tesla has reportedly begun production of the updated version today at its Gigafactory located near Berlin.
Popularity and Production
The Model Y stands as Tesla’s top-selling vehicle, and its success has allowed it to outproduce the well-known German brand Audi for the first time in 2024, with numbers reaching 1.67 million compared to Audi’s 1.79 million units. Therefore, it is crucial for Tesla to maintain this positive trend.
Facelift Meeting Confirmation
A rumor from last week suggested that Tesla planned a briefing for Giga Berlin staff regarding the Model Y Juniper refresh, and it appears that this was accurate. German news outlets confirmed that a meeting took place on Monday, revealing that the facelift was showcased within the factory, allowing team leaders to discuss the Juniper’s specifications and features ahead of the production launch today.
Model Variants and Market Expectations
It remains uncertain if Tesla will offer exclusive versions of the Model Y Juniper in Europe, similar to its earlier models, such as the “maximum range” RWD variant featuring an LFP battery capable of achieving 372 WLTP standard miles per charge. However, it is highly likely that there will be a Model Y Juniper Performance variant, which has already been seen undergoing tests in the United States.
The rumor that successfully predicted last week’s facelift announcement and the March release date for the Juniper refresh also indicated that production would begin almost simultaneously in Shanghai, Berlin, and the U.S. Currently, two of these Gigafactories are down, and there is no information regarding the Model Y Juniper release date in the U.S.
Australian Launch and Regulatory Delays
In Australia, the Juniper facelift is anticipated to launch in May; however, the market will receive the Chinese versions, now with an RHD option. The extended regulatory approval times for the 2025 Model Y, which includes crash testing and FSD feature evaluations like the Model 3 Highland refresh, may contribute to a delayed Model Y Juniper release in the U.S. Additionally, there may be a need to increase production of the 4680 battery cells.
Tesla will require every available 4680 pack from Giga Texas and other locations for both the Cybertruck and the Model Y Juniper, especially as it aims to produce the most affordable battery in the U.S. to benefit from government tax credits for their manufacturing.
If rumors about the potential removal of the made-in-U.S. EV and battery tax credits by Trump’s administration do come true, Tesla may have to reconsider its options and could revert to using Panasonic and LG batteries for the Model Y Juniper facelift, which might allow for an earlier release date in the U.S.
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