The rumor that trial production of the Tesla Model Y Juniper facelift has commenced appears to have some basis, as reports of camouflaged test vehicles on the streets are becoming more common.
Recent Sightings
After noticing a supposed Model Y Juniper refresh in the US featuring a rear light bar reminiscent of the Cybertruck or the Robotaxi, and then seeing it tested at night in Europe, it's now time to examine the front end more closely.
Close-Up Details
A recent sighting of the alleged Tesla Model Y Juniper has provided a closer look at the front bumper. Even with the camouflage covering key areas, there is an apparent opening on the front bumper, hinting at a camera placement resembling that of the Cybertruck.
The electric pickup also includes a front bumper camera. However, this camera does not belong to Tesla's HW4 FSD package and isn't intended for autonomous driving. In its interactive overview video for the Cybertruck, Tesla clarifies that the front bumper camera is simply there "to improve visibility ahead during low-speed parking and offroading" rather than to assist when utilizing the Cybertruck's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature.
Mule-Only Features?
On another note, the front bumper feature seen in the video of the camouflaged Model Y Juniper could just be a mule-specific element, similar to what was seen with the Model 3 Highland during its prototype phase. Tesla ultimately decided against including this in the Model 3 refresh, believing that the existing HW4 camera setup would be sufficient for parking the compact sedan, especially since offroading isn’t exactly what people do with it.
However, since the Model Y Juniper is expected to have a higher stance and will definitely offer an AWD version, the front bumper camera might be a permanent addition in the final retail model. The Juniper facelift is anticipated to be revealed next quarter, featuring larger batteries, an HW4 FSD package, new design elements at the front and rear, an improved powertrain layout, vented seats, and ambient lighting inside.
Pricing Expectations
Despite these enhancements, Tesla might aim to maintain the current pricing or even lower it slightly, benefiting from the introduction of new 4680 or CATL battery packs, along with the anticipated 800V high-voltage and 48V low-voltage systems, plus a more streamlined interior.
