Tag: Model Y Juniper

  • BYD Challenges Tesla in Germany with New Factory Amid Model Y Issues

    BYD Challenges Tesla in Germany with New Factory Amid Model Y Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. BYD plans to build an electric vehicle factory in Germany to avoid high European tariffs on Chinese imports.
    2. This will be BYD’s third factory in Europe, adding to its existing facilities in Hungary and Turkey, with a total expected output of 500,000 vehicles.
    3. Despite challenges like labor costs and productivity in Germany, BYD sees it as a key location for increasing brand recognition in Europe.
    4. The new factory will compete directly with Tesla’s Gigafactory near Berlin, which is vital for producing the new Model Y.
    5. Tesla is facing employee morale issues at Giga Berlin, linked to its sick leave policy, while sales in Europe are declining ahead of the new Model Y production.

    BYD is reportedly set to establish an electric vehicle factory in Germany to sidestep European tariffs by manufacturing locally.

    New Factory Plans

    If this plan gets the green light, it will mark BYD’s third production facility in Europe, following its factories in Hungary and Turkey, which are expected to have an annual output of 500,000 vehicles. The increased tariffs on Chinese car imports, which can go as high as 35% due to alleged illegal government subsidies, along with an existing 10% tax, haven’t stopped BYD from boosting its exports and expanding its range of models in Europe. As a vertically integrated electric vehicle manufacturer, BYD produces its own batteries, allowing it to keep prices low even with the tariffs in place.

    Challenges in Germany

    Despite facing challenges related to worker productivity and the costs of labor and energy in Germany, BYD has reportedly identified the country as its preferred location for enhancing brand awareness among European consumers. Chinese officials have also been visiting Volkswagen factories that are expected to shut down, likely aiming to take advantage of the existing infrastructure and skilled workforce in those areas.

    Competing with Tesla

    Should the BYD factory in Germany come to fruition, it will directly compete with Tesla, which already operates a Gigafactory near Berlin. This facility is crucial for the complex production line adjustments and ramping up manufacturing that recently introduced the new Model Y Juniper refresh, which is a successor to the world’s best-selling vehicle, launching simultaneously from four global Gigafactories.

    Tesla’s Employee Issues

    However, Tesla is currently grappling with issues regarding employee morale at Giga Berlin. The company’s sick leave policy has reportedly led to the suspension of payments to workers whose claims are deemed questionable. Tesla has expressed concerns about the unusually high number of sick leave requests during the Model Y production ramp, challenging employees to “release their doctors from their duty of confidentiality” to clarify their health issues preventing them from working.

    This has understandably sparked backlash, as German law prohibits withholding pay from employees on sick leave. Tesla attempts to navigate this by claiming they are only withholding overpayments from prior sick leave submissions. Meanwhile, Tesla’s sales in Europe, particularly in Germany, are plunging ahead of the Model Y Juniper production increase. The upcoming quarter will be vital to determine if this decline is linked to Elon Musk’s controversial political stance or if potential customers are simply awaiting the new Model Y.

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  • New Model Y Features FSD AI-Controlled Brake Cylinder and Regen Braking

    New Model Y Features FSD AI-Controlled Brake Cylinder and Regen Braking

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2026 Model Y Juniper features improved range due to enhanced efficiency in power usage, with a 5% increase while using the same battery pack.
    2. The new brake system includes lighter calipers and two independent hydraulic cylinders, improving braking performance and functionality.
    3. The brake system operates automatically in Autopilot or Full Self-Driving mode, allowing the brake pedal to remain stationary during these sessions.
    4. Enhanced regenerative braking relies more on the electric motor, optimizing energy recovery while maintaining smooth pedal response.
    5. A new regenerative braking mode allows drivers to modify the vehicle’s slowing behavior when releasing the accelerator, improving energy recuperation.

    When Tesla revealed the refreshed 2026 Model Y Juniper, they highlighted a significant improvement in the range achieved per charge, which comes from enhancing the electric SUV’s efficiency in power usage.

    Efficiency Improvements

    In addition to saving on power consumption, Tesla pointed to a reduced drag coefficient and enhanced aerodynamics of both the body and brakes as key factors that contributed to a 5% increase in range using the same battery pack.

    New Brake System Design

    The Model Y facelift features a cutting-edge brake system that includes lighter calipers. This new system is compact and introduces two independent hydraulic cylinders for the first time.

    Lars Moravy, Tesla’s lead engineer, explained that the brake system in the Model Y Juniper is now equipped with two master cylinders. The driver only operates one of these, while the other cylinder engages the brakes automatically when the vehicle is in Autopilot or Full Self-Driving mode. This means the brake pedal remains stationary during self-driving sessions. The Model Y’s braking is fully managed by its HW4 computer, utilizing AI algorithms to determine when to slow down and how much energy to recover through regenerative braking, all while keeping the pedal still.

    Enhanced Regenerative Braking

    This Model Y Juniper refresh relies more on regenerative braking via the electric motor instead of traditional friction braking with the cylinders and pads, setting it apart from other Tesla models. The regenerative braking starts based on how hard the driver presses the brake pedal, increasing friction braking only when necessary, which helps to optimize energy recovery and overall efficiency.

    Additionally, a new regenerative braking mode is available within the settings of the Model Y facelift under the Reduced Deceleration option. Tesla states that this feature “modifies how quickly the vehicle slows when the accelerator pedal is let go,” enhancing energy recuperation.

    This improvement doesn’t compromise the feel of the brake pedal; the transition between increased regenerative braking and decreased friction braking is now smooth, ensuring that the pedal response remains consistent, as Tesla proudly claims.

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  • Tesla Model Y Juniper Deliveries Start in the US Before Release Event

    Tesla Model Y Juniper Deliveries Start in the US Before Release Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla began delivering the new Model Y Juniper refresh to US customers in early March, following earlier deliveries in China.
    2. A special invitation-only delivery event is planned for March 8 to celebrate the Model Y Juniper’s arrival in the US.
    3. Early adopters are sharing their delivery experiences and showcasing their new Model Y on online forums.
    4. The Model Y Juniper facelift features unique badging and includes the Full Self-Driving option, priced at $60,000.
    5. Tesla also announced delivery windows for the 2026 Model Y in Europe, with a launch event at Giga Berlin on March 7.

    Just as they said they would, Tesla began delivering the first preorders of the new Model Y Juniper refresh to customers at the start of March.

    When Tesla revealed the 2026 Model Y, they mentioned that the Juniper facelift would be available in the US around March. They also made the same statement regarding the launch in China, but they actually began delivering preorders there earlier, on February 26.

    Event to Celebrate the Release

    To mark the arrival of the Model Y Juniper refresh in the US, Tesla has planned a March 8 delivery event that is by invitation only. This event is designed to echo the Cybertruck launch, where Tesla gave keys to a mix of influencers and automotive journalists.

    Meanwhile, early adopters of the Model Y Juniper facelift in the US are sharing their delivery experiences on forums. They are posting their VIN numbers and showcasing the new model alongside other Tesla vehicles they own.

    Customer Experience Shared

    One customer shared their journey about ordering and receiving their vehicle. They placed a preorder for a 2026 Model Y Launch Series on January 23, and after several updates to the delivery timeframe—ranging from mid-February to early March—they finally received their Model Y on Sunday, March 2, at the Tesla store in Knoxville, Tennessee.

    They uploaded photos of the Model Y Juniper delivery from the store and from their garage, where the refresh is parked next to their 2024 Model 3 Performance. Now they have the latest versions of both of Tesla’s popular models.

    Exclusive Features and European Launch

    As Tesla is currently only offering the Launch Series edition in the US, the Tennessee owner’s new Model Y Juniper facelift features unique badging and comes with the Full Self-Driving option included in the $60,000 price tag before any tax credits.

    In addition to the US, Tesla has also begun delivery windows for the 2026 Model Y in Europe this week. They will host a launch event at Giga Berlin on Friday, March 7, just a day prior to the significant release celebrations in Fremont and Texas.

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    Tesla Model Y Juniper Deliveries Start in the US Before Release Event
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  • Tesla Announces Model Y Juniper Refresh Event in Texas

    Tesla Announces Model Y Juniper Refresh Event in Texas

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is hosting a launch event for the Model Y Juniper facelift in the US on March 8, inviting influencers and journalists to attend.
    2. The company is ramping up Model Y production across four factories globally, with signs of high inventory levels in Texas.
    3. The official release date for the Model Y Juniper in the US is March 8, during which Tesla will announce specifications and pricing.
    4. Tesla has revealed pricing for certain Model Y Juniper versions in Europe, where sales have dropped, but US pricing details are still pending.
    5. A new RWD version of the Model Y Juniper offers a range of 386 miles (WLTP), the longest for this model, though US version details remain unclear.

    Tesla has started sending out invites for a significant launch event for the Model Y Juniper facelift in the US, scheduled for Saturday, March 8.

    Influencer Engagement

    Similar to the Cybertruck launch, Tesla is inviting various influencers and automotive journalists to showcase their vehicles publicly. Attendees will also get a guided tour of the production lines for the Model Y Juniper refresh at Tesla’s Gigafactories located in Texas and California.

    Global Production Efforts

    Tesla is undertaking an unusual ramp-up of Model Y vehicle production across four factories worldwide. While the refresh has already been rolled out in China, it appears that the US and Europe are not far behind. Recently, a drone flight over Giga Texas revealed parking lots brimming with newly manufactured Model Y Juniper units, hinting at an upcoming release, and the recent invitations only add to this speculation.

    Release Date and Pricing Information

    The official release date for the Model Y Juniper in the US is set for March 8. Although the launch event is exclusive, Tesla is expected to hold a keynote during the handoff ceremony to announce the official specifications and price range. This event may also be when Tesla updates its website with the new Model Y Juniper prices, as it has only listed a $60,000 Launch Series edition for preorder thus far. In Europe, where Tesla’s sales have dropped significantly this year, prices for the most affordable 2026 Model Y Juniper RWD and the non-Launch Series AWD variant have already been revealed.

    Notable Features

    In that region, Tesla also offers a special RWD version boasting a remarkable range of 386 miles (WLTP), making it the longest-range Model Y to date. It remains uncertain which Juniper versions will be available in the US and what types of batteries they will use.

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    Tesla Announces Model Y Juniper Refresh Event in Texas
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  • Tesla Boosts Model 3 Range with New Tire Brand

    Tesla Boosts Model 3 Range with New Tire Brand

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2026 Model Y Juniper facelift has a 5% increase in range due to improved aerodynamics and power efficiency, not a larger battery.
    2. The Model 3 Long Range RWD range increased from 322 miles to 343 miles, while the Long Range AWD improved from 316 miles to 332 miles.
    3. The Model 3’s range gains (6.5%) surpass those of the new Model Y Juniper, achieved without changing battery size.
    4. Tesla’s internal testing may yield higher range numbers than EPA estimates; recent tire changes to lower rolling resistance could contribute to range improvements.
    5. Model 3 owners can now expect to drive about 20 more miles on a single charge before recharging.

    The 2026 Model Y Juniper facelift has revealed a 5% increase in range, mostly due to better aerodynamics and power efficiency instead of a boost in battery size.

    Model 3 Range Improvements

    On the other hand, Tesla has demonstrated its capability to enhance the range of existing vehicles, particularly with the Model 3. The cheapest Model 3 Long Range RWD has seen its range rise to 343 miles from the previous 322 miles.

    Additionally, the Model 3 Long Range AWD has also experienced a similar upgrade, increasing its range from 316 miles to 332 miles on a single charge.

    Comparing Range Gains

    The 6.5% increase for the base Model 3 surpasses the range boost that new Model Y Juniper owners will receive compared to the previous model. Like the Juniper refresh, this improvement was made possible by reducing the power consumption rate of the Model 3, keeping the battery size unchanged.

    It’s worth noting that the new range figures for the Model 3 are based on the 19-inch Nova Wheels. The specifications now simply mention “estimate” instead of “EPA estimate,” indicating that these numbers come from Tesla’s internal testing rather than official EPA figures.

    Reasons Behind the Changes

    Typically, Tesla’s internal testing is more stringent than EPA standards, so the range number might be even higher once the official EPA estimates are released, similar to what happened with the Model Y Juniper, which was initially rated for 320 miles but later received an EPA estimate of 327 miles.

    The recent change of tires on the Model 3 from Continental to Goodyear Eagle Sport, which have lower rolling resistance, could be the reason behind this range increase for the existing vehicle.

    When Tesla officially announced the EPA range for the Model Y Juniper refresh, its chief engineer praised the “most efficient tires” ever used in a Tesla, hinting that similar improvements might have been made for the Model 3 tires.

    Regardless, Model 3 owners can now expect to get about 20 more miles out of their vehicles before needing to recharge.

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  • Tesla Begins Mass Production of Model Y Juniper for Early Release

    Tesla Begins Mass Production of Model Y Juniper for Early Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Model Y Juniper facelift production has started, with deliveries expected to begin soon, possibly next week.
    2. Initial customer deliveries in China are ahead of schedule, about a week earlier than Tesla’s original timeline.
    3. The U.S. launch of the Model Y Juniper is expected to follow shortly after the Chinese release, with confirmed specs and pricing already announced.
    4. The 2026 Model Y Juniper offers an EPA range of 327 miles, a 5% improvement over the previous model, achieved through better efficiency.
    5. North American customers who reserved the Model Y Juniper may experience delayed delivery dates, with some pushed to next month due to ramp-up times at U.S. production facilities.

    The upcoming Model Y Juniper facelift is set to be released sooner than Tesla had previously indicated. Mass production has already commenced, and deliveries are expected to begin “soon,” possibly as early as next week.

    Early Production Update

    Since the announcement of the Model Y Juniper, Tesla had mentioned March as the expected release month for both China and the United States. However, the Giga Shanghai team recently hinted that they have completed the pilot batch stage during a brief Chinese New Year break for upgrades and retooling. Now, proper mass production is underway, with deliveries to early customers about to commence.

    Anticipated Customer Deliveries

    Local reports suggest that the Model Y Juniper could be delivered as soon as next week, meaning that initial units will soon be in the hands of their new owners. This timeline is about a week ahead of Tesla’s originally announced delivery schedule, which is likely to lead to a surge of first-hand videos and reviews from excited customers.

    U.S. Launch Expectations

    Regarding the U.S. release of the 2026 Model Y Juniper, it is expected to follow closely behind the launch in China. Tesla announced the specs and pricing for the new Model Y just days after the information was shared in China. Additionally, Tesla has confirmed the official EPA range for the Model Y Juniper, which clears the way for an early U.S. release, depending on production readiness.

    The facelifted 2026 Model Y boasts an impressive range of 327 miles on a single charge, which is a 5% improvement over the previous Model Y AWD, achieved through a more efficient drivetrain and improved aerodynamics rather than an increase in battery capacity.

    Order Status for North American Customers

    However, customers in North America who reserved the $60,000 Model Y Juniper and were initially given a February-March delivery timeframe are now seeing the release date pushed to next month. Tesla’s Giga Shanghai facility is its largest and most efficient production site, likely benefiting local customers, while those in the U.S. with new Model Y orders may have to wait an additional week or two for Giga Texas and Fremont to ramp up production of the Juniper facelift.

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    Tesla Begins Mass Production of Model Y Juniper for Early Release
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  • Model Y Juniper FSD 13 Test Ride: Improved Self-Driving Comfort

    Model Y Juniper FSD 13 Test Ride: Improved Self-Driving Comfort

    Key Takeaways

    1. The refreshed Model Y Juniper features the new Hardware 4.0 (AI4) suite, including a unique 4D cabin radar for enhanced passenger monitoring.
    2. The 4D radar can recognize back seat occupancy, monitor passenger vital signs, and automate safety responses like opening windows or contacting emergency services.
    3. Tesla’s latest FSD 13 software shows significant improvements in self-driving performance, requiring no driver input during testing.
    4. Upgrades to suspension, ride height, and seating enhance overall ride comfort for passengers in the Model Y Juniper.
    5. The new model includes a physical turn signal stalk, responding to user requests for improved manual driving features.

    The first chance for the public to test drive the refreshed Model Y Juniper, equipped with the latest FSD 13 software, has been quite exciting, showing great potential.

    New Features and Hardware

    Tesla has outfitted the refreshed Model Y with the familiar Hardware 4.0 (AI4) suite, which includes high-resolution cameras and sensors seen in previous Model Y versions, as well as in the Model 3 and Cybertruck. However, this facelift stands out due to some unique hardware features, including a new 4D cabin radar. This radar is different from the one in older Model Y versions produced after November 2021, which was activated via a software update. The new 4D radar can also sense back seat occupancy.

    Safety and Comfort Innovations

    In addition to recognizing the size and weight of passengers for airbag deployment in case of an accident, the radar can monitor their pulse and breathing. This allows the car to automatically open windows, activate the A/C, or even contact emergency services if the app’s alert isn’t responded to by the owner.

    The tester for the Model Y Juniper FSD remarked that Tesla’s latest self-driving software performs as well as ever, requiring no input from him during the drive shown in the video below. He noted significant improvements in ride comfort compared to the previous Model Y.

    Enhanced Driving Experience

    The Juniper refresh features a completely redesigned suspension, lower ride height, and slightly larger, more comfortable vented seats. These small upgrades collectively provide a better experience for passengers. Additionally, it now includes a physical turn signal stalk for manual driving, something that owners of the Model 3 refresh have been requesting for some time.

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  • Tesla Model Y Performance Facelift: Faster Acceleration & 7-Seater

    Tesla Model Y Performance Facelift: Faster Acceleration & 7-Seater

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Model Y Juniper Performance trim will be released later this year, featuring a facelift and a 7-seat option for families and groups.
    2. Tesla’s self-driving vehicle pilot program in Austin will begin in June, testing Full Self-Driving technology in a ride-sharing service.
    3. The Model Y’s 7-seat layout includes an automated rear bench that folds for extra cargo space, although the automation of the smaller seats is still uncertain.
    4. The 2026 Model Y Long Range AWD will have 455 horsepower and improved performance, potentially exceeding the current 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds.
    5. A unique 6-seat variant of the Model Y may be introduced for the Chinese market, aligning with the U.S. 7-seater launch timeline.

    The release of the Model Y Juniper Performance trim is expected later this year, according to Lars Moravy, Tesla’s chief engineer. The facelift for 2026 will also introduce a 7-seat option, making it perfect for large families or groups going on road trips.

    Useful Family Features

    The Model Y Juniper 7-seater will be especially beneficial when Tesla rolls out its fleet of self-driving vehicles in Austin in June. This pilot program for robotaxis aims to test the functionality of the Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology while operating a ride-sharing service without human drivers, setting the stage for the upcoming Cybercab launch in 2026. The initial phase will likely include the Model 3 and Model Y facelifts.

    Enhanced Usability

    This new Juniper refresh with a 7-seat layout is designed to help transport families with young kids or groups of friends, depending on how spacious the seats actually are. It features an automated rear bench that can fold forward to create more cargo room with just a button press. However, it’s still unclear how automated the additional two smaller seats will be.

    Moreover, the updated Model Y can detect when the front seats are pushed too far back. It adjusts the seats while the rear bench folds to make space for the headrests and create a flat cargo area, then returns the front seats to their original positions.

    Performance and Specifications

    Another exciting update is the inclusion of a high-performance variant, similar to the previous model. The 2026 Model Y Long Range AWD is reported to have 455 horsepower and 430 pounds-feet of torque, placing it on par with the existing Performance trim, as noted by Moravy.

    The acceleration for the 2026 Model Y Performance could surpass the current 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds due to the Juniper refresh being slightly lighter, more efficient by 10%, and having a better drag coefficient compared to its predecessor.

    Recently, the Performance trim of the Model Y was observed undergoing tests in California, suggesting that a release date in Q2 is highly likely, following the Launch Series edition deliveries scheduled to start in March.

    For the 7-seat version of the 2026 Model Y, there were early speculations it would debut in the holiday quarter. Additionally, Tesla may create a unique 6-seat variant specifically for the Chinese market, potentially launching around the same time as the US 7-seater configuration.

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  • 2026 Tesla Model Y: Official Name for Juniper Refresh Release

    2026 Tesla Model Y: Official Name for Juniper Refresh Release

    When Tesla revealed its eagerly anticipated Model Y Juniper refresh, it dubbed it the New Model Y Launch Series edition. This version comes equipped with FSD and special badging, resulting in a higher price for those who are quick to grab the facelift, which is set to be available in March.

    The full designation of this first refresh is the New Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive Launch Series edition. However, the official model year for the Juniper refresh has leaked, stirring up some debate.

    Confusion Over Model Year

    A picture of the California emissions compliance label for the new Model Y has surfaced, where Tesla identifies the refreshed version as the 2026 Model Y. Before the announcement, and even now, many speculated it would be called the 2025 Model Y, especially since it was unveiled in January with a spring launch planned.

    Interestingly, Tesla already has a 2025 Model Y, which refers to the existing units of the former design that have been produced since November 2024. These units have an S as the 10th digit of the VIN and include some of Tesla’s ongoing hardware improvements, which they thought justified a new model year.

    Marketing Tactics

    Thus, like many car manufacturers, Tesla now labels a vehicle launched in the current year as the following model year. This means the 2026 Model Y will officially be the name for the Juniper refresh upon its release, while the first batches of the New Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive Launch Series edition are quickly being snatched up by early buyers.

    This is a familiar tactic that keeps consumers subconsciously feeling like they possess the latest model from their preferred automotive brand for over a year, allowing Tesla to maintain its strategy at least until 2027.

    Design and Performance

    Ultimately, the Model Y Juniper facelift primarily consists of design updates with a few new lighting options added. Therefore, Tesla must keep it appealing to consumers. However, it still features the same battery with the same slow charging speeds as its predecessor, indicating that 2027 might be the furthest Tesla can go before introducing a more advanced powertrain for its top-selling vehicle.

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    2026 Tesla Model Y: Official Name for Juniper Refresh Release
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  • Model Y Prices Surge Ahead of Juniper Release Due to Tariffs

    Model Y Prices Surge Ahead of Juniper Release Due to Tariffs

    While Tesla is set to reveal the pricing and release date for the 2025 Model Y Juniper refresh in North America, possibly this week, buyers in the US and Canada might encounter significantly increased costs.

    Changes in US Pricing

    In the US, the Model Y Juniper could be available without the federal tax credit of $7,500. This is due to the new Trump administration’s request for a halt on all EV subsidies until a 90-day review is completed. Once this review is done, the federal agencies will provide recommendations on whether to eliminate the new EV tax credit and charging infrastructure aids altogether, with a strong possibility of that happening.

    Price Hikes in Canada

    Starting February 1, fans of Tesla’s popular Model Y in Canada will also see steep price increases. Tesla Canada has confirmed that the price of the Model Y will rise by CA$4,000 (approximately US$2,790). The Model 3 Long Range AWD and Performance trims will have even higher increases of CA$8,000 and CA$9,000, respectively.

    Coincidentally, this date also marks when the Trump administration’s new tariffs against Canada and Mexico take effect. Canada plans to respond with import taxes on US goods. As a result, Tesla appears to be proactively raising prices for all Model Y trims in Canada by nearly CA$3,000 and doubling that for Model 3 prices.

    Disadvantages for Canadian Buyers

    Canadian consumers face a tough situation as Tesla buyers since their federal EV rebate expired last year. Additionally, the CAD has been falling sharply against the USD amid the looming tariff threats.

    To add to the woes, Tesla has priced the 2025 Model Y Juniper refresh somewhat higher than the previous model in China. If it follows suit in North America, early buyers might be in for an unwelcome shock after enjoying a year of discounts and promotions that brought the Model Y price down to nearly $35,000 with combined rebates and incentives.

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