Tag: Tesla Model Y

April 17, 2025
New Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic Colors
Key Takeaways
1. The 2026 Tesla Model Y Juniper facelift features a new Diamond Black color option, exclusive to U.S. buyers.
2. The Diamond Black finish is designed to mimic the sparkle of a diamond when exposed to sunlight.
3. Spy shots reveal that the Diamond Black hue appears vibrant and eye-catching, even when the car is dirty.
4. The Diamond Black color option costs an additional $1,500, with an extra $1,000 for a stylish black and white interior.
5. Tesla also offers the 80A Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector with a 24′ cable for purchase on Amazon.
Those looking to get their hands on the latest Tesla Model Y Juniper facelift can now check out how two of its color options appear in bright sunlight, which is probably the toughest condition for any color to show its true self.
The leaks showcase the fresh and exclusive Diamond Black shade for the 2026 Model Y, available only to buyers in the United States, along with the popular Deep Blue Metallic.
Eye-Catching Diamond Black
Unquestionably, the new Diamond Black finish has captured the most interest, as Tesla aimed to mimic the glimmer of a diamond facet when exposed to direct sunlight.
Images of the new Model Y in Diamond Black have already surfaced, showing a unit charging at Tesla’s public showroom in Fremont, but now we have footage of it in full sunlight as well.
Sparkle in the Sun
Admittedly, the spy shots feature a rather dirty 2026 Model Y, but even then, the Diamond Black hue glimmers softly as the camera pans over it. The video showcases both the front and back of the new Model Y dressed in Diamond Black, providing a stark contrast to Tesla’s prior dark color options.
This new finish appears more vibrant, at least for a black shade, and injects some flair into what could have been a rather dull appearance for the updated Model Y.
Tesla has set the price for the Diamond Black color at an additional $1,500. For those who desire a stylish black and white interior alongside the shimmering exterior finish, an extra grand will be required.
Source:
Link
Tags: 2026 Facelift, Diamond Black, Tesla Model Y
April 5, 2025
Tesla Model Y AWD Price Increase in US for New Diamond Black Color
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla launched the 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh in the US, introducing a new regular AWD trim without the FSD bundle.
2. The new Model Y is priced higher than the previous Long Range AWD version, making the Launch Series edition appear more affordable for FSD buyers.
3. The 2026 Model Y Long Range AWD Juniper refresh costs $1,000 more than the previous model but is $12,000 cheaper than the Launch Series edition.
4. The new Model Y is still eligible for the federal $7,500 tax credit, bringing its price down to $41,490.
5. Tesla introduced an exclusive color option, Diamond Black, for an additional $1,500, which is expected to be popular among buyers.
Tesla has just launched the 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh in the US, introducing a new regular AWD trim that does not include the FSD bundle found in the previously available Launch Series edition. This is the first time the new model is available without that feature pack.
Pricing Comparison
However, the new Model Y comes with a higher price tag compared to the earlier Long Range AWD version, making the Launch Series edition appear more affordable for buyers interested in FSD. The old Model Y AWD LR was previously priced at $50,000 before accounting for the federal tax credit, but Tesla later reduced that to $48,000.
The 2026 Model Y Long Range AWD Juniper refresh is priced $1,000 higher, making it $12,000 cheaper than the Launch Series edition. If a buyer adds all the bundled options such as FSD and Acceleration Boost, along with premium accessories from the Launch Series, the final price of the new Model Y AWD could rise to $65,000.
FSD Feature and Tax Credit
This makes the original trim a good deal for anyone looking to buy Tesla’s FSD feature, especially since they expect to receive the unsupervised version starting in June, when testing begins in Austin. Luckily, the new Model Y remains eligible for the federal $7,500 tax credit, bringing the advertised price to $41,490.
In an effort to ease the disappointment of the increased Model Y Juniper refresh price in the US, Tesla has introduced a unique and exclusive color called Diamond Black. This new color option comes with an additional cost of $1,500 and is described by Tesla as a “deep jet black with variations of sparkle and refined flake appearance.”
Availability of New Color
This new color is expected to be highly sought after and could sell out fast, similar to the white interior option of the Launch Series edition, which was unavailable for much of the time that Tesla sold the first Model Y trim in the US.
Source:
Link
Tags: 2026 Juniper refresh, FSD feature, Tesla Model Y
March 28, 2025
Model Y Adaptive High Beams Test Reveals Legacy Matrix Headlight Insights
Key Takeaways
1. The adaptive high beams feature will soon be available for the legacy Model Y in the US through an over-the-air software update.
2. The 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh will come with adaptive headlights fully operational from the factory.
3. Regulatory challenges in the US have delayed the rollout of adaptive high beams compared to European models.
4. Initial updates for legacy Model Y owners may include basic functions like automatic high/low beam switching.
5. Future updates will enhance the adaptive matrix headlight features, allowing for advanced adjustments without blinding other drivers.
Tesla’s chief engineer, Lars Moravy, has recently announced that the adaptive high beams feature, which has been available to European drivers for some time, will soon be available for the legacy Model Y in the US in “several months.”
New Features in 2026 Model Y Juniper Refresh
The upcoming 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh will come with the adaptive headlights feature ready to use right from the factory, and it has already been tested on public roads. Since 2021, Tesla vehicles have been equipped with matrix headlights that allow individual pixels to be turned on or off. However, the adaptive function has been restricted due to regulatory issues. The US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108 is more stringent compared to the European regulations, meaning Tesla has to deal with more regulatory hurdles before they can enable the adaptive high beams for the legacy Model Y.
Upgrades for Older Units
For the older Model Y units that have matrix headlights, the adaptive high beams will be made available through an over-the-air software update, similar to the rollout in Europe. In contrast, the new Model Y will come with the adaptive headlights control software fully unlocked right from the factory. “When Adaptive Headlights is enabled, the beam of the headlights adjusts automatically to improve your driving view,” Tesla explains.
Real-World Demonstrations
One customer who purchased the Launch Series Model Y edition captured two brief videos showcasing the automatic high beams feature in action, giving a sneak peek of what legacy Model Y owners can expect later this year. Nonetheless, according to Lars Moravy, the initial update might only include simpler functions, like automatically switching between high and low beams when approaching other vehicles. Tesla plans to later roll out the complete range of adaptive matrix headlight features for the legacy Model Y, which will include dimming specific pixel patterns to enhance visibility while ensuring that other drivers are not blinded, as well as beam adjustments during turns.
Source:
Link
Tags: Adaptive Headlights, Lars Moravy, Tesla Model Y
March 27, 2025
Totaled Model Y Juniper Shows Enhanced Torsional Rigidity
Key Takeaways
1. The 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh features improved body stiffness and safety upgrades to enhance passenger protection during collisions.
2. A wrecked Model Y with under 200 miles showed that the interior remained intact, and airbags did not deploy despite significant damage.
3. Tesla vehicles, including the Model Y, are known for achieving five-star safety ratings and minimizing injuries in severe accidents.
4. Key design features such as a low center of gravity and advanced crumple zones contribute to Tesla’s strong safety performance.
5. Initial testing of the new Model Y suggests promising safety capabilities, although it has yet to undergo rollover or trailer collision tests.
According to the engineers at Tesla, the 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh features a body that boasts improved torsional stiffness along with other safety upgrades that could be beneficial during collisions.
“A sturdy body structure is more effective at absorbing crash forces, and airbags play a vital role in protecting the people inside,” Tesla explains how they designed the refresh to enhance passenger safety.
Recent Testing Reveals Results
It didn’t take long for this claim to be tested, as what appears to be one of the first wrecked Model Y facelifts in the U.S. has surfaced in a junkyard in Houston. This vehicle has fewer than 200 miles on the clock but has already been in an accident on the passenger side, damaging the quarter panel and significantly affecting the wheel well and suspension components.
Interior Resilience Observed
A comprehensive 360-degree inspection of the wrecked Model Y indicates that the interior remains intact, even on the crash side, and surprisingly, the airbags did not deploy during the incident.
Tesla takes pride in producing cars with five-star safety ratings, with Model Y occupants often emerging from severe accidents with minimal injuries. The Model 3 stands out as the only car to excel in a trailer collision test.
Design Features Contributing to Safety
Much of Tesla’s commendable safety record can be attributed to design traits common in electric vehicles, like a low center of gravity resulting from the heavy battery located at the bottom. Other safety features, such as the gigacast rear design, frame reinforcements, and crumple zones, reflect Tesla’s engineering efforts that have led to the torsional rigidity advancements in the new Model Y.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash testing process describes Tesla vehicles as having “a robust, rigid passenger compartment, an fortified battery pack, and a generally low center of gravity.” “These key safety features,” Tesla elaborates, “work to prevent cabin intrusion and protect the battery modules, lower rollover risks, and distribute crash forces away from the passenger area—all while laying the groundwork for our superior front crumple zone, which is tailored to absorb energy and crush in a more effective manner.”
While the new Model Y has yet to showcase its durability in rollover incidents or collisions with trailers and trees like its predecessor—where occupants sustained only minor injuries—the initial totaled facelift could indicate promising prospects for its passenger safety capabilities.
Source:
Link
Tags: crash testing, passenger safety, Tesla Model Y
March 27, 2025
Tesla Model Y Juniper Trims with White Interior Now More Affordable
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla has launched the lowest-cost Model Y Juniper versions in China and Europe but not yet in the US.
2. The current US offering is the Model Y Launch Series edition, priced at $60,000 with additional features like FSD.
3. More affordable RWD and AWD Model Y options are expected soon, as Tesla prepares for increased demand.
4. New inventory suggests potential pricing for the RWD Model Y Juniper could start below $46,000 before tax incentives.
5. The updated Model Y in international markets has improved range due to design and efficiency enhancements.
While Tesla has begun offering the lowest-cost Model Y Juniper versions in China and Europe, it has yet to introduce a RWD trim or a basic AWD model in the United States.
Currently, only the Model Y Launch Series edition is being shipped here, priced at $60,000 before any tax credit subsidies. This version includes the $8,000 FSD option, along with premium accessories and unique Launch Series branding.
Competitive Package Deal
The bundled deal for the 2026 Model Y is appealing, as the total value exceeds the current market price of the SUV. However, the $60,000 price tag primarily attracts early adopters who are less concerned about cost compared to customers looking for the new Model Y without FSD and other extras.
Tesla is set to launch non-Launch Series models soon, which will include the most affordable RWD Model Y Juniper refresh. Reports suggest that new trims are accumulating in Tesla’s factory parking lots as the company prepares to meet the expected surge in demand.
New Inventory Insights
A recent drone flyover at the Gigafactory in Texas captured images of Model Y Juniper refresh units that lack the special rear liftgate badge found on the Launch Series edition. This indicates that after launching the 2026 Model Y in the US as a $60,000 package deal, Tesla appears ready to price and offer more affordable AWD and RWD options.
The pricing for the new Model Y in the US remains uncertain, but if the international rollout of the standard versions is any guide, Tesla may raise prices slightly. It’s possible that the RWD Model Y Juniper will start at just below $46,000 before the $7,500 federal tax credit and other incentives.
Improved Range and Anticipation
In both China and Europe, the updated Model Y boasts a longer range compared to its earlier version, even though it utilizes the same battery and 250 kW charging system. This improvement is attributed to a streamlined design and various efficiency enhancements.
Another reason to look forward to the release of the more affordable Model Y AWD and RWD refresh in the US is that the Launch Series edition has been out of stock for the white interior trim for some time. This could be a factor in Tesla’s decision to build inventory at its Giga Texas factory before making the order configurator for the less expensive 2026 Model Y available on its website.
Source:
Link
Tags: Launch Series Edition, RWD Model Y Juniper, Tesla Model Y
March 25, 2025
Volkswagen Overtakes Tesla in Europe EV Sales Amid Rising China Competition
Key Takeaways
1. Volkswagen remains the leader in the European EV market with a 180% increase in registrations, totaling 19,565 units.
2. Tesla’s market share has declined to 9.6%, with the Model Y sales dropping 56% and the Model 3 sales down 14%.
3. Analysts suggest Tesla’s market share drop is tied to the launch of the new Model Y rather than Elon Musk’s political involvement.
4. Other brands like BMW, Audi, Renault, and Kia also saw significant sales increases, indicating strong competition in the market.
5. Chinese EV brands are gaining ground, collectively selling over 4,000 more units than Tesla in February 2025.
The numbers are out for the European EV market for February 2025. Data from JATO Dynamics shows that Volkswagen has maintained its leading position across 28 countries, as the overall market volume increased by 26 percent year-on-year, rising from 130,739 to 164,148 units.
Tesla’s Market Share Decline
One of the most notable updates is Tesla’s drop in market share, now at 9.6 percent. The Model Y recorded only 8,800 units sold, which is a steep 56 percent decline. The Model 3 didn’t do any better, seeing a 14 percent decrease in registrations, totaling 6,800. Overall, the company lost 44 percent of its BEV market share, placing it in second position.
Analyst Insights
Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has been getting more involved in American politics. However, Felipe Munoz, an analyst at JATO Dynamics, suggests that the decrease in market share is more related to the launch of the new Model Y rather than Musk’s political activities. He highlights the difference in the volume drop between the Model Y and Model 3 as significant.
Volkswagen’s Continued Success
Volkswagen led the registration numbers again with 19,565 units, marking a remarkable 180 percent increase compared to last year. BMW also showed an improvement, increasing by 20 percent with 13,475 units sold. Other brands that saw gains include Audi with a 70 percent rise, Renault at 96 percent, and Kia up by 56 percent, in that order.
Competition from Chinese Brands
At the same time, Tesla faces increasing challenges as Chinese brands have begun to take market share. Collectively, these brands sold over 4,000 more units than Tesla. Even though both groups sold fewer units than in January, this shift is significant because Tesla had outsold the Chinese brands by nearly 5,000 registrations in the first month of the year.
JATO Dynamics’ data indicates a changing landscape in the EV market, with competition heating up as various brands adapt and evolve.
Source:
Link
Tags: electric vehicles, Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen
March 16, 2025
Xiaomi YU7 Leak: Tesla Model Y Outshined by Gold-Plated SU7 Ultra
Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi YU7 SUV boasts a range of up to 770 km, surpassing the Tesla Model Y’s range by 50 km.
2. The starting price of the YU7 is expected to be around $34,500, which is $2,000 less than the Model Y in China.
3. The YU7 will offer different variants, including options with and without LiDAR, and will feature a 96.3 kWh battery pack.
4. The design of the YU7 carries over elements from the SU7, with an innovative interior instrument panel featuring an offset ultrawide screen strip.
5. CEO Lei Jun’s popularity in China, likened to Elon Musk, may have contributed to the success of Xiaomi’s first EV, the SU7, despite some issues with the gold-plated badges.
After achieving success in the market with its initial electric vehicle, the SU7, Xiaomi is gearing up to launch the YU7 SUV, which appears poised to compete directly with the latest Tesla Model Y.
Impressive Range Certification
A leak from the Chinese regulatory body equivalent to the FCC has revealed the top range version of the Xiaomi YU7, which surpasses the Model Y Long Range. The MIIT has certified that the YU7 can travel up to 770 km (CLTC), exceeding the Model Y’s range by 50 km.
Competitive Pricing
Even with its larger battery and extended range, the Xiaomi YU7 is anticipated to have a starting price of around $34,500, which is $2,000 less than the starting price of the Model Y in China.
The YU7’s extended range is supported by a 96.3 kWh battery pack, while Xiaomi has also filed for a performance 01.7 kWh nickel battery, likely intended for the top-tier YU7 AWD model, which boasts an impressive 691 horsepower.
Different Variants and Technology
Xiaomi has also registered versions with and without LiDAR, indicating that the more affordable RWD models might utilize vision-based autonomous driving technology, similar to what Tesla employs. For these models, Xiaomi has also certified an LFP battery.
On the exterior, the YU7’s design elements carry over from the SU7, featuring yellow brake calipers and raindrop-style headlights. However, the interior will showcase a fresh approach to EV instrument panels. Xiaomi has registered an offset ultrawide screen strip aimed at making it easier to monitor essential driving information without being a distracting secondary screen.
Xiaomi’s Reputation and Leadership
Xiaomi, known for its quality value products like Bluetooth speakers and Redmi smartphones, has a vast range of offerings, including home electronics and electric scooters, and has recently ventured into the automotive sector.
CEO Lei Jun has garnered a significant fanbase, often being compared to Elon Musk in China. This popularity may be one reason why the first EV, the SU7 sedan, became an instant success. Recently, Lei Jun introduced the high-performance SU7 Ultra version, which is not only cheaper but also quicker than the Tesla Model S Plaid.
However, he may have erred in mentioning that the Xiaomi emblem on the SU7 Ultra is gold-plated, as early buyers of this premium performance EV have reported thefts of their badges.
While Lei Jun quickly urged potential thieves not to act on their impulses, stating, “it’s not worth breaking the law over that amount of gold,” incidents of SU7 Ultra badges appearing in classifieds began to surface.
Upon examination, the gold content of the SU7 Ultra badge was determined to be worth only about thirty dollars, yet this did not deter people from attempting to steal them.
Source:
Link
Tags: SU7 Ultra, Tesla Model Y, Xiaomi YU7
March 15, 2025
Model Y Juniper: Brake-by-Wire & Heat Pump Features Explained
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla’s updated Octovalve SuperManifold heat pump improves cooling capacity but will not be available in all Model Y units immediately.
2. The new “hydraulic-by-wire” braking system features dual master cylinders, enhancing braking efficiency and energy recovery during driving.
3. The brake-by-wire system allows for better control and energy recuperation, with a hydraulic backup for safety.
4. Tesla claims the new braking system and smaller brake calipers contribute to increased efficiency, with a 5% improvement in range per charge for the Model Y Juniper.
5. The braking system design is innovative, resembling Mercedes’ one-box brake system, which also optimizes energy recovery and maintains consistent brake feel.
Tesla has launched an updated version of its Octovalve SuperManifold heat pump as part of the new 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh, which is now being delivered to customers. However, not all vehicles will have this upgrade immediately.
Enhanced Cooling Capacity
Tesla’s lead engineer, Lars Moravy, shared that a new LCCR filter system has been added to boost the cooling ability of the heat pump. Also, the SuperManifold heat exchange unit has been enhanced to a more efficient v2 version.
Notably, the SuperManifold v2 will not be included in every new Model Y unit. Whether it is present in the first batches will depend primarily on the factory it ships from. Lars mentioned in a chat with Sandy Munro, known as the Teardown Titan, that it may take a year before all buyers of the Model Y Juniper can be sure they’re receiving all the heat pump enhancements.
New Braking System Features
In addition to the heat pump upgrades, Tesla has introduced a “hydraulic-by-wire” braking system in the Juniper refresh. This system now has one master cylinder controlled by the driver and another solely managed by Tesla’s self-driving computer.
This configuration allows the brake pedal to remain steady while using Autopilot or FSD, and enables more efficient energy recuperation, even when the driver is manually applying the brake, based on the amount of force used.
On one side, the brake-by-wire system, which employs electric motor actuators on the booster side, offers a more seamless braking experience and enhances energy recovery. However, Lars pointed out that the hydraulic motion can still function as a backup for added safety when necessary.
Efficiency Gains and Competitors
The electric motor actuation also provides Tesla the ability to retract the brake pads slightly further than would typically be possible with just hydraulic braking, which reduces friction and leads to further efficiency improvements.
Tesla claims that this hydraulic-by-wire system, along with the smaller brake calipers, is a significant factor in the Model Y Juniper’s enhanced efficiency. Lars noted that no other car manufacturer has implemented by-wire brakes with such a level of decoupling, but it closely resembles the one-box braking system that Mercedes unveiled with its new CLA electric sedan, which is priced to rival the Tesla Model 3.
The all-electric CLA boasts a new one-box brake system that integrates previously separate components, such as the brake booster and master brake cylinder, into a compact unit. This system optimizes energy recovery during braking, thereby extending range. The by-wire design ensures a consistent and clear brake pedal feel for the driver, regardless of whether the braking involves recuperation or traditional friction methods. Furthermore, the new system adheres to the brand’s rigorous safety standards, automatically switching to hydraulic backup in case of a malfunction, ensuring safe braking at all times.
Despite the introduction of the new brakes and other efficiency enhancements, the Model Y Juniper refresh offers around a 5% increase in range per charge compared to the same battery used in its predecessor.
Source:
Link
Tags: hydraulic-by-wire braking, Octovalve SuperManifold, Tesla Model Y
March 14, 2025
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.
Source:
Link
Tags: E41, Model 2, Tesla Model Y
March 13, 2025
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.
Source:
Link
Tags: Juniper refresh, Lower-Priced Model Y, Tesla Model Y