Category: EV vehicles

  • Tesla Sales Crisis: 94% of Germans Reject Elon Musk’s EVs

    Tesla Sales Crisis: 94% of Germans Reject Elon Musk’s EVs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Declining Interest: A recent poll shows 94% of Germans would not choose to buy a Tesla, indicating a significant decrease in interest.

    2. Sales Drop: Tesla’s sales in Germany fell by 41% in 2024, with a further decline of 70.6% in early 2025, while other EV brands saw a 27% increase.

    3. Political Backlash: Elon Musk’s political activities, including ties to Germany’s far-right AFD party, are believed to negatively impact Tesla’s sales.

    4. Increased Vandalism: There is a rise in vandalism against Tesla vehicles and Superchargers, possibly linked to Musk’s controversial public actions.

    5. Market Competition: Tesla faces growing competition from brands like Volkswagen and Hyundai, as well as issues with the availability of the standard Model Y contributing to the sales downturn.

    To say that Tesla’s popularity in Germany has decreased is probably an understatement. A recent poll of 100,000 Germans indicates that the last bit of interest in buying a Tesla electric vehicle appears to have faded away. This is surprising, especially since EVs are gaining more fans overall.

    Survey Insights

    The survey, conducted by T-Online, saw a record number of participants. Results show that a whopping 94% of those surveyed said they would not choose to buy a Tesla. Tesla’s sales have already dropped by about 41% in 2024, while sales of other EV brands have increased by around 27%.

    Political Concerns

    Many believe this decline is tied to Elon Musk’s recent political activities. Experts in the industry mention that Musk’s association with Germany’s far-right AFD party has negatively affected Tesla’s sales. This party garnered roughly 20% of the vote during the last election.

    Moreover, Musk’s notable appearance at President Trump’s inauguration is unlikely to have won him fans in Germany. While one might assume that voters from this group could be potential Tesla buyers, the AFD has often criticized Tesla in the past. A specific example is the satirical advertisement that mocks a well-known German Christmas tune: “Advent, Advent a Tesla is burning.”

    Current Sales Trends

    In 2025, Tesla’s sales in Germany took another significant hit, plummeting by 70.6% just in the first two months compared to 2024. The decline isn’t limited to Germany, as sales across Europe also fell by 43.5% during the same period. The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y were particularly hard-hit, showing drops of 81.4% and 55.4%, respectively.

    In addition, there has been an uptick in vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles and Superchargers, suggesting that the sales drop may stem from personal grievances related to Musk’s controversial public actions.

    Market Competition

    Some speculate that the current sales downturn could be because the standard version of the Model Y isn’t available, while the premium version was only recently introduced. Growing competition from brands like Volkswagen, Hyundai, Toyota, Honda, and BYD is likely to complicate matters further for Tesla. Whether the new facelift of the Model Y will turn things around remains uncertain. If you already own a Tesla and are feeling uneasy about your choice, you might consider using a sticker that says, “I bought this before Elon went crazy.”

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    Tesla Sales Crisis: 94% of Germans Reject Elon Musk's EVs
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  • Tesla Rebounds in Norway and Sweden with New Model Y Launch

    Tesla Rebounds in Norway and Sweden with New Model Y Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s Model Y has seen a strong sales rebound in Norway with 485 registrations in March, up from 283 in February.
    2. The Model 3 also improved in Norway, with 267 units registered in March compared to 129 in February.
    3. In Sweden, the Model Y is performing well, with 318 registrations so far in March, potentially surpassing February’s total of 479.
    4. The Model 3’s sales in Sweden have declined, with only 60 units registered in March.
    5. The early data indicates a positive trend for Tesla in the Nordic market, signaling a recovery from previous sales declines in Europe.

    Tesla might be on the verge of a sales rebound in at least two Nordic nations this March, mainly due to the newly launched Model Y. Early vehicle registration data suggests that the electric SUV has reclaimed the top position in Norway, potentially marking a recovery from the company’s decline in deliveries throughout Europe.

    Norwegian Market Performance

    The Norwegian Electric Vehicle Statistics report that the Model Y has achieved 485 registrations in March, a significant increase from the 283 units recorded in February. The Model 3 follows in second place with 267 units registered, which is an uptick from the 129 units registered the previous month.

    Success in Sweden

    In Sweden, the Model Y is also seeing success, climbing to the third position. So far in March, buyers have registered 318 units, indicating it might surpass February’s total of 479. Sales have already outpaced January’s total of 299, as per data from CarUp. In contrast, the Model 3’s performance has dipped, with only 60 units registered.

    Outlook for March

    With March still ongoing, the data only provides a partial view. Nevertheless, a resurgence in Norway, known as the EV capital of the world, certainly offers a boost for Tesla after the unfavorable news surrounding global sales declines in February. The situation appears to be improving for the company, which is a positive sign moving forward.

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  • Canada’s EV Rebate Program Does Not Cover Tesla Chargers

    Canada’s EV Rebate Program Does Not Cover Tesla Chargers

    Key Takeaways

    1. B.C. Hydro has removed Tesla EV chargers from its rebate program to support locally manufactured products.
    2. Residents can still receive a subsidy of up to $350 for Level 2 EV chargers, but Tesla products purchased after March 12, 2025, will not qualify.
    3. Other U.S. EV products remain eligible for the rebate, while only four Canadian brands are included.
    4. British Columbia offers a $4,000 rebate for new electric vehicles under the Clean BC Go Electric program, but Tesla vehicles’ eligibility is uncertain.
    5. Ongoing trade tariff conflicts between the U.S. and Canada complicate the situation for companies like Tesla.

    Tesla EV charger purchasers in British Columbia will no longer receive benefits from B.C. Hydro’s EV rebate program, as it has removed products from the American manufacturer. The energy company, which is connected to the government, states that its goal is to support locally manufactured solutions and “exclude, where practicable, U.S.-produced goods.”

    Rebate Details

    Residents in British Columbia can receive a subsidy of up to $350 or half of the costs for Level 2 EV chargers. Other Tesla items impacted by this decision include energy storage systems like the Powerwall and inverters. However, any Tesla products bought prior to March 12, 2025, will still qualify for the rebate.

    Remaining Options

    At the same time, EV products from other U.S. companies are still included in the rebate program, but the list features only four Canadian brands.

    British Columbia provides a $4,000 rebate for new electric vehicles through the Clean BC Go Electric program. It is uncertain if Tesla electric vehicles will be excluded from this financial aid. Currently, the U.S. and Canada are engaged in trade tariff conflicts started by the U.S., putting major companies like Tesla in a challenging position.

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  • Affordable Tesla Model Y E41 Launching Soon in the US

    Affordable Tesla Model Y E41 Launching Soon in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new, more affordable Model Y refresh, internally called E41, is set for release in 2026 and will be smaller than the current Model Y with a 20% reduction in manufacturing costs.

    2. The E41 model will maintain battery capacity and drivetrain performance but will feature a simpler interior, similar to the budget-friendly RWD Model 3 in Mexico.

    3. Production is planned for North America and Europe, with potential sightings of a prototype indicating a miniaturized version of the Model Y.

    4. Tesla is developing the E41 as a response to increasing competition in the EV market, particularly from cheaper models offered by brands like BYD and NIO in China.

    5. The expected starting price for the E41 could be under $30,000, making it a strong competitor against emerging EV brands in the market.

    The upcoming, more affordable Model Y refresh that Tesla is planning to release in late 2025 has now been updated with additional details, although the launch has been postponed to 2026.

    Production Insights

    Sources from within Tesla’s supply chain indicate that this new model will be smaller than the latest Model Y facelift and will see a 20% reduction in manufacturing costs at the Shanghai Gigafactory, which will be the first to receive orders.

    Internally referred to as E41, this smaller, budget-friendly Model Y project has moved away from nicknames like “Juniper” or “Highland,” opting instead for a simpler coding system of numbers and letters, similar to the NV9X project that led to the creation of the Cybercab two-seater.

    Specifications and Features

    Earlier rumors suggested that the E41 would not compromise on battery capacity or drivetrain performance, implying that the affordability will come from a reduced size and a more basic interior. This approach mirrors Tesla’s strategy with the RWD Model 3 in Mexico, which comes with standard cloth seats that lack heating or ventilation, along with some other comfort features being omitted.

    The smallest and most affordable Model Y version is expected to be manufactured in North America and Europe as well. This could clarify the sighting of a camouflaged prototype during a recent drone flight over Giga Texas, which appeared to be a miniaturized Model Y, creating some confusion about the yet-to-be-released Model 2. This model, which Elon Musk and Lars Moravy hinted would arrive later this year, is also anticipated to resemble a scaled-down Model Y rather than a typical hatchback.

    Future Predictions

    When Elon Musk hinted during a quarterly call that the upcoming cheapest Tesla Model 2 would be “smaller, to be certain,” he likely meant smaller than the Model 3. However, with Tesla now focusing on the E41 Model Y, all previous predictions about design may be irrelevant.

    Alternatively, it’s possible that the Model 2 could be an even more compact version of the Model Y compared to the E41, featuring a smaller battery which could help Tesla achieve the competitive price range of $20,000-$25,000, especially with potential subsidies. Tesla’s lead engineer, Lars Moravy, mentioned, “the most difficult part of doing that is not making the cars worse, so I promise that they won’t be a massive step-down from the cars we sell today.”

    In any event, Tesla is primarily developing the smaller, more affordable Model Y as a strategic move against the increasing competition in the EV market in China, where brands like BYD, NIO, and even Xiaomi are emerging with strong competitors that are cheaper and offer more than the latest Model Y.

    This context sheds light on the tentative release date of 2026, as Tesla could likely rely on the demand for the Model Y Juniper refresh for a few quarters, driven by early adopters and customers looking to upgrade their older Model Y vehicles.

    Currently, Tesla is only selling the $60,000 Launch Series Juniper edition in the U.S., with only older inventory units of the previous Model Y available. The company has yet to release the new Model Y in RWD and AWD configurations that are not bundled with FSD, making it too soon to determine the price for the smaller Model Y E41 when it potentially debuts in the U.S.

    In China, the starting price for the refreshed Model Y is approximately $36,300. Given Tesla’s profit margins, a 20% reduction in manufacturing costs could mean that the E41 project launches at well under $30,000, positioning it as a strong competitor against BYD, NIO, or Xiaomi’s offerings in that market.

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  • Mercedes CLA Sedan vs Tesla Model 3: 400-Mile Range and Specs

    Mercedes CLA Sedan vs Tesla Model 3: 400-Mile Range and Specs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mercedes targets Tesla Model 3 as main rival for the new CLA electric sedan, priced about $10,000 higher but offering more value.
    2. The CLA features an 85 kWh battery, achieving a range of 694-792 km, significantly surpassing the Model 3’s 530 km range.
    3. Fast charging capabilities allow for 200 miles of range in just 10 minutes using a high-power charger, with a typical charge from 10% to 80% taking about 22 minutes.
    4. Advanced engineering includes a Disconnect Unit (DCU) for enhanced efficiency, smart recuperation methods, and a low drag coefficient of 0.21 for better range.
    5. The CLA introduces the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) for advanced software functionality, including over-the-air updates and generative AI capabilities for driver interaction.

    At the recent event announcing the new Mercedes CLA electric sedan, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz openly stated that the main rival they are targeting is the Tesla Model 3.

    While it is true that the Mercedes CLA comes with a price tag that’s about $10,000 higher than the Model 3, it provides significantly more value for that extra cost.

    Impressive Battery and Range

    Equipped with a substantial 85 kWh battery and boasting impressive efficiency, the CLA achieves a range of between 694-792 km (WLTP) on a single charge. In contrast, the Model 3 can only manage 530 km under the same testing conditions. When the Mercedes CLA launches in the US next quarter, it will be one of the electric vehicles with the longest range per charge, potentially achieving an EPA estimate of up to 420 miles.

    This model marks the first electric vehicle built on the Mercedes Modular Architecture platform, designed for mass production. It features an 800V powertrain system, allowing for quicker charging and more efficient motors, providing up to 200 miles of range in just 10 minutes when using a 320+ kW charger like Tesla’s V4 Superchargers, or 9 hours with a home charging solution like the Tesla Wall Connector.

    Fast Charging and Performance

    A typical charging session from 10% to 80% takes about 22 minutes, which is faster than what Tesla’s 800V Cybertruck can achieve, as its 4680 battery lags behind other charging technologies.

    The rear-wheel drive (RWD) version of the Mercedes CLA delivers 268 horsepower, while the all-wheel drive (AWD) variant is rated at 349 hp, reaching 0-60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. Interestingly, the range of the AWD model, named CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology, is only marginally less than that of the RWD model.

    Mercedes attributes this efficiency to the introduction of the Disconnect Unit (DCU), which is being used in a car for the first time within its C-class lineup. The 107 HP front electric motor is only activated during crucial moments of acceleration or when traction is needed, and it shuts down immediately after, which can “reduce parasitic losses at the front axle by up to 90 percent and enhances electric range.”

    Advanced Engineering Features

    To achieve the remarkable efficiency of the Mercedes CLA and surpass the Tesla Model 3’s range, there are various engineering innovations in place, such as smart recuperation methods during braking and a record low drag coefficient of 0.21.

    Mercedes claims that the CLA provides an exceptionally quiet and smooth ride, with its larger size allowing for increased passenger and cargo space. Inside, buyers can choose to have up to three screens, including an option for passenger displays or head-up displays.

    Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the new CLA is its focus on software functionality. This vehicle is the first to use the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which integrates infotainment and driver-assist features. Over-the-air (OTA) updates will allow drivers to access new functions as they become available. The car’s MBUX Virtual Assistant also utilizes generative AI capabilities from ChatGPT and Google Gemini, enabling it to engage in fluid conversations with the driver on any topic needed.

    Mercedes will also provide a smaller 58 kWh battery option at a lower price point, along with a hybrid version featuring a petrol engine for those who aren’t ready to make the full transition to electric just yet.

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  • BYD Launches EV Charging Tech Twice as Fast as Tesla on March 17

    BYD Launches EV Charging Tech Twice as Fast as Tesla on March 17

    Key Takeaways

    1. BYD is launching the Super e-Platform on March 17, which offers charging speeds twice as fast as Tesla’s Superchargers.
    2. The Super e-Platform can deliver up to 1,000 kW, allowing for battery recharge times comparable to traditional gasoline refueling.
    3. BYD’s new charging stations can fully charge a 100 kWh battery in just 10 minutes, surpassing current fast chargers.
    4. Pre-orders will start for two new electric vehicles, the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV, which are designed to work with the Super e-Platform.
    5. The Han L and Tang L feature dual motors with peak outputs of 810 kW and impressive acceleration times of 2.7 and 3.9 seconds, respectively.

    BYD is making significant moves to challenge Tesla’s top spot, launching its attack on two fronts at once. On March 17, all attention will be focused on its headquarters in Shenzhen, where the Chinese car manufacturer will introduce the Super e-Platform. This innovative charging solution promises to charge batteries at a rate twice as fast as Tesla’s renowned Superchargers. Additionally, BYD will begin taking pre-orders for two new electric vehicles.

    Advanced Charging Technology

    The Super e-Platform is designed to deliver up to 1,000 kW to compatible electric vehicles, and BYD claims it can recharge batteries as quickly as refueling a traditional gasoline car. According to the event invitation, “The BYD Super e-Platform will use disruptive technology to completely solve the biggest headache in EV use.”

    Impressive Charging Speed

    BYD’s new charging stations can, in theory, completely charge a 100 kWh battery in a mere 10 minutes. This performance will surpass the fastest public chargers available today, which provide up to 500 kW, including Tesla’s V4 Superchargers.

    New Electric Models

    Alongside the unveiling of the Super e-Platform, BYD will also kick off pre-orders for the electric Han L sedan and the Tang L SUV, both of which were introduced in January. Given their close association with the new charging technology, it’s reasonable to assume these models will be equipped to utilize the Super e-Platform effectively.

    In terms of specifications, the Han L and Tang L each feature dual motors that peak at 810 kW. They can reach 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds and 3.9 seconds, respectively.

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  • Toyota Unveils FT-Me Micro EV with Solar Roof and Accessibility Features

    Toyota Unveils FT-Me Micro EV with Solar Roof and Accessibility Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Toyota has introduced a tiny two-seater electric vehicle (EV) called the FT-Me, measuring only 2.5 meters in length, ideal for urban driving.
    2. The FT-Me features innovative driving controls built into the steering wheel, allowing hands-only operation that benefits wheelchair users and younger drivers.
    3. The passenger seat can be removed to create space for items like folding bikes or wheelchairs, enhancing versatility.
    4. The vehicle boasts impressive energy efficiency, using three times less energy per kilometer than larger electric cars and potentially providing additional daily range from solar panels.
    5. Specific details like price, expected range, and maximum speed are currently undisclosed, but the FT-Me is designed for urban mobility in Europe.

    Along with the new C-HR+ and bZ4X, Toyota has introduced a tiny two-seater electric vehicle (EV) measuring only 2.5 metres (98 inches) in length, which is about the size of a golf cart. This compact vehicle takes up half of a regular parking space. Besides its small size, the FT-Me has been designed with features that aim to make city driving easier and more accessible for a broader variety of drivers.

    Innovative Driving Controls

    One standout feature of this car is that it replaces traditional floor pedals with driving controls that are built right into the rectangular steering wheel. This hands-only method of driving is particularly beneficial for wheelchair users, but it also makes the car more suitable for younger drivers. In some European nations, a 14-year-old can drive the FT-Me with an entry-level driver’s license.

    Versatile Passenger Space

    Moreover, the passenger seat can be easily taken out, creating room for a folding bike, wheelchair, or other items. Toyota has also introduced what they call a “360-degree visibility concept,” which enhances safety and makes it easier to navigate tight spaces.

    The FT-Me is said to use “three times less energy per kilometre than a high-capacity battery electric car.” This is likely part of the claim that the solar panels on the roof can provide an additional 20-30 km (12-19 miles) of range each day.

    Impressive Energy Efficiency

    This statistic is quite remarkable, as it means many users could potentially avoid charging altogether. It’s also somewhat surprising when you consider the small solar panel on the roof, much of which is actually clear.

    At this moment, Toyota has not disclosed other important information, such as the price, expected range, and maximum speed. The FT-Me is intended to serve as a solution for urban mobility in Europe, but no specific launch date has been announced yet.

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    Toyota Unveils FT-Me Micro EV with Solar Roof and Accessibility FeaturesToyota Unveils FT-Me Micro EV with Solar Roof and Accessibility Features

     

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  • New All-Electric Toyota C-HR+ SUV Launching This Year

    New All-Electric Toyota C-HR+ SUV Launching This Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Toyota C-HR+ is a new electric coupe-SUV, combining features from the C-HR plug-in hybrid and the Compact SUV concept.
    2. It offers both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, with battery choices of 57.7 kWh and 77 kWh.
    3. The AWD variant has up to 343 DIN horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km in 5.2 seconds, while the FWD model has a maximum output of 224 DIN hp.
    4. The C-HR+ has an expected WLTP range of up to 600 km and comes with standard features like a Blind Spot Monitor and Adaptive High-beam System headlights.
    5. The vehicle will launch in selected European markets later this year, with a wider release planned for 2026, but pricing details are not yet available.

    Toyota has introduced the C-HR+, a brand new electric vehicle. This model is labeled as an electric coupe-SUV, merging features from the C-HR plug-in hybrid and the Compact SUV concept. The manufacturer states that the ‘+’ in the name signifies its adaptability.

    Specifications and Options

    The C-HR+ is constructed on the e-TNGA BEV platform, providing buyers with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) choices, along with 57.7 kWh and 77 kWh battery options. According to Toyota, the AWD variant, which is exclusively paired with the larger battery, is among the most powerful in its European range, boasting up to 343 DIN horsepower (252 kW) and achieving 0 to 100 km (~62 mph) in just 5.2 seconds. In contrast, the FWD model equipped with the 57.7 kWh battery produces 167 DIN hp (123 kW), while the 77 kWh version generates 224 DIN hp (165 kW).

    Charging and Range

    These electric vehicles are supplied with an 11 kW charger as standard, and there’s a 22 kW option on the High trim. The company states that the WLTP range can reach up to 600 km (~373 miles), although more tests are needed to confirm this. Standard features include a Blind Spot Monitor and Adaptive High-beam System headlights, with additional offerings like Park Assistant and Panoramic View Monitor available on the High trim.

    Interior and Launch Details

    Measuring 4,520 mm in length and having a 2,750 mm wheelbase, the model allows for a roomy cabin and a 416 L trunk. Inside, drivers will find a 14-inch multimedia display, two wireless smartphone chargers with USB ports at the back, and a panoramic roof. Plus, users can track their vehicle via the MyToyota app. The C-HR+ is set to debut in selected European markets later this year, with a broader launch planned for 2026. However, Toyota has not yet disclosed the pricing for this new electric vehicle. Additionally, the company has recently shared updates about the bZ4X.

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  • Toyota bZ4X: New Features and Improved Charging Performance

    Toyota bZ4X: New Features and Improved Charging Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Toyota bZ4X will offer two battery options: 57.7 kWh and 73.1 kWh, enhancing customer choice.
    2. The FWD model with the 73.1 kWh battery will produce 224 DIN hp, while the AWD model will have 343 DIN hp.
    3. The maximum WLTP range for the bZ4X could reach up to 356 miles (about 573 km) with the new battery options.
    4. Enhanced features include increased towing capacity of 1,500 kg, a 22 kW AC onboard charger, and a battery pre-conditioning feature for better charging efficiency.
    5. The updated bZ4X is expected to launch in Europe by late 2025, with uncertain pricing implications due to the new battery options.

    The Toyota bZ4X is about to offer customers a selection of two battery options. This update is part of a broader refresh for the battery electric vehicle that debuted in 2022. Right now, the basic model, bZ4X Pure FWD, comes with a 71.4 kWh battery (150 kW) that has a WLTP range estimate of 271 miles (around 436 km).

    New Battery Choices

    Customers will soon have the option to choose between battery capacities of 57.7 kWh and 73.1 kWh. The smaller battery is only available for the front-wheel drive (FWD) model, which produces 167 DIN hp (123 kW). The FWD version equipped with the 73.1 kWh battery provides 224 DIN hp (165 kW), while the all-wheel drive (AWD) model has a powerful 343 DIN hp (252 kW). This peak power is partly due to enhancements in the company’s eAxle system, which now incorporates silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors. Toyota estimates that the maximum WLTP range could reach 356 miles (about 573 km).

    Enhanced Features

    The towing capacity for the AWD model has also increased to 1,500 kg, and the High grade version will include a 22 kW AC onboard charger. Additionally, the new Toyota bZ4X will come standard with a battery pre-conditioning feature, aimed at improving charging efficiency. There are also modifications to the EV’s exterior design, an updated interior, and a new BEV navigation feature that aids the driver by considering their remaining range and nearby charging stations.

    Launch Plans

    The updated Toyota bZ4X is set to be launched in Europe by late 2025. It is still uncertain how these updates, especially the addition of a lower battery capacity option, will influence the pricing of this electric mid-size SUV. Recently, Toyota has also introduced the new C-HR+ battery electric coupe-SUV targeted at the European market.

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  • Tesla Plans Affordable Model Y Refresh If Juniper Facelift Fails

    Tesla Plans Affordable Model Y Refresh If Juniper Facelift Fails

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has received 200,000 preorders for the 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh in China, but actual order numbers may be lower than anticipated, potentially doubling the reported count.
    2. Tesla is planning to launch a more affordable Model Y due to disappointing sales of the Juniper facelift, with only about 6,000 units shipped in the week after launch.
    3. The new budget Model Y will retain the same battery and drivetrain as the Juniper refresh but will focus on cost reductions in other areas.
    4. Tesla’s cost-cutting strategy, known as the “depop” method, simplifies product configurations while keeping key functions, as seen in the affordable Model 3 refresh in Mexico.
    5. The budget Model Y is expected to debut in China later this year, aiming to boost sales after the initial demand for the Juniper refresh has declined.

    Since the announcement of the 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh, Tesla has reportedly received 200,000 preorders in China while the vehicle was still on the reservation list.

    Reservation Discrepancies

    However, according to Troy Teslike, an analyst focused on Tesla, the actual order numbers might be “twice as high as the real order count.” This suggests that the Juniper facelift preorders could be lower than Tesla anticipated. In February, when the company sold 30,688 cars in China, it apparently started strategizing to boost sales in this crucial market.

    New Model Y Plans

    Tesla is reportedly preparing to launch a more affordable Model Y to address the sales of the current Juniper facelift, which have not met its expectations. Unusually, the wait time for the new Model Y in China is quite short. In the week following its launch, only a little over 6,000 units were shipped, falling short of the nearly 10,000 units that were anticipated.

    While this might relate to the ramp-up in production and may not indicate a drop in demand, Tesla is taking precautions by planning a budget-friendly Model Y trim.

    Cost-Cutting Strategy

    Industry insiders have stated that this new version won’t be a smaller or less capable iteration of the Model Y, unlike Tesla’s upcoming Model 2, which is set to debut later this year. Instead, Tesla intends to retain the battery and drivetrain used in the Juniper refresh but will look to reduce expenses in other areas.

    This strategy is known as the depopulation or “depop” method. Tesla employs this approach to “quickly introduce products by simplifying configurations while maintaining key functions.”

    For instance, the affordable Model 3 refresh released in Mexico featured cloth seats and omitted several features found in the original facelift. In that model, the cloth seats in the RWD version lack heating and ventilation, and several elements such as the rear display, colored ambient lighting, and the lid from the cupholders were removed. Additionally, the depop method makes use of acoustic glass solely on the front windows and eliminates steering wheel heating.

    It remains unclear if the anticipated budget Model Y will adopt similar cost-cutting measures, but it is expected to make its debut in China in the latter half of the year to help increase sales once the initial Juniper adopters have largely exited the market.

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