Tag: Tesla Model Y Juniper

January 18, 2025
2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Facelift: New Police Vehicle in US
When the 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper is set to hit the US market later this quarter, it will feature not only the basic RWD, AWD, and Performance models, but also a special version designed for police use.
New Patrol Car Retrofit
Unplugged Performance, known for its UP.FIT shop that transforms Teslas into fleet vehicles, has just revealed plans to offer a fully-equipped Model Y Juniper retrofit for patrol cars shortly after the refresh debuts in the US.
A week ago, Tesla made an announcement regarding the new 2025 Model Y, with a tentative release set for March. They are currently utilizing the Chinese New Year celebrations to enhance and rework the Model Y Juniper production lines at their Shanghai Gigafactory in preparation for mass production.
Production Updates
Prior to this, Tesla was churning out over 600 units of the updated design per day. Recently, there have been numerous reports of truckloads of Juniper models being shipped from Giga Shanghai, including the new Glacial Blue color option.
Alongside the US launch, Tesla is also rolling out the 2025 Model Y Juniper in Europe, having commenced mass production at Giga Berlin earlier this week. Past speculations suggested that the Model Y Juniper would be released simultaneously in China, Europe, and the US, so it’s only a matter of time before we see these updated models coming from the Gigafactories in Texas or Fremont, where the 4680 batteries for the US version of the Model Y refresh are likely being produced.
Law Enforcement Applications
Unplugged Performance boasts unmatched expertise in modifying Tesla vehicles for police use, meaning the Model Y Juniper tailored for law enforcement agencies across the United States could be available very soon after its US launch.
According to the UP.FIT shop, police departments have reported savings of around $15,000 per vehicle each year by operating their Tesla fleet instead of other options. Therefore, the Model Y Juniper might find its way into police car fleets shortly after it becomes available in the US.
Source:
Link
Tags: police vehicle retrofit, Tesla Model Y Juniper, Unplugged Performance
January 10, 2025
Tesla Model Y Juniper Price and Specs Confirmed for March Release
The Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh has finally been revealed this week, confirming the earlier speculations surrounding its release date. This marks the first significant update for Tesla’s best-selling vehicle.
Pricing and Specifications
The Juniper refresh comes at a slightly higher price than the previous version, with minimal changes to charging speed and range. It features a more modern design compared to the aging Model Y. The starting price for the RWD Juniper refresh is set at $35,900, which is over 5% more than its predecessor. Meanwhile, the dual-motor AWD Model Y Juniper is priced at $41,400 in China, reflecting a similar increase.
The Model Y Juniper is slated for release in March across China and other Asia Pacific areas like Australia, and customers can place orders now. The US launch is anticipated to occur in Q1, contingent on regulatory approvals.
Range and Efficiency
There were hopes that the Juniper refresh would include a larger battery, but that has not been the case. The revamped Model Y offers a range of 719 km (446 miles), which is a slight improvement over the previous model’s 688 km (427 miles). This modest gain of just 20 miles is attributed to better efficiency in the drivetrain rather than a new battery. Tesla claims the Model Y Juniper is designed for economical power use, emphasizing “using every kilowatt-hour more effectively.” However, it’s worth noting that this range figure comes from China’s generous CLTC cycle, which is typically at least a third higher than the US standard.
The EPA range for the dual-motor AWD Model Y Juniper in the US is likely to be around 311 miles, similar to the current model, possibly with a slight increase.
Charging Capabilities
One area that may disappoint potential buyers is the charging speed. The Juniper refresh can charge at 250 kW, which is unchanged from the previous iteration. The RWD model, with an LFP battery, charges even slower at a peak of 170 kW. It remains uncertain if these charging rates will apply to the US models, especially since Tesla is introducing V4 Superchargers capable of charging at up to 500 kW, suggesting that the powertrain could differ from the Chinese version.
The Juniper refresh’s exterior has been redesigned for a more aggressive look, featuring a lower drag coefficient. There is a rear light bar described as “an integrated diffuse reflection through-type taillight.” The front light strip, reminiscent of the Cybertruck’s, is now a continuous feature alongside the updated headlights.
Enhanced Features
As anticipated, the Model Y Juniper includes upgraded suspension, wheels, and tires, aiming for a “smoother, quieter ride.” The 19-inch and 20-inch wheel options come with improved handling and grip. A die-cast rear underbody simplifies the design by reducing the number of parts from 70 to just one, enhancing overall structural integrity and ride quality.
The facelift also introduces vented seats and ambient lighting, features that were previously seen in the Model 3 Highland refresh. Interestingly, the Juniper refresh features an indicator stalk by the steering wheel, moving away from the stalkless design, although it’s unclear if this will be available in the US. Tesla explains that this new indicator stalk is crafted for effortless control, incorporating feedback from users.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Model Y Juniper boasts a 15.4-inch central display with improved resolution and pixel density, along with an 8-inch touchscreen for rear passengers. For added convenience, the rear bench seats can fold electrically, providing a trunk space of over 2,130 liters. The rear trunk door unlocks and lifts automatically, simplifying the process of loading heavy items.
Additionally, the Model Y Juniper is equipped with Tesla’s latest Hardware 4.0 cameras and autonomous driving computer. This setup includes a front bumper camera similar to that of the Cybertruck, which enhances the vehicle’s field of view for advanced driver assistance features.
As a bonus, the Model Y Juniper refresh will launch alongside the latest FSD v13 update for the first lucky buyers in the US.
However, it’s important to note that by the time the Model Y Juniper arrives in March, it may no longer qualify for the federal EV tax credit, which is reportedly under review by the current administration, along with other electric vehicle incentives.

Tags: electric vehicle, refresh, Tesla Model Y Juniper
January 9, 2025
Model Y Juniper Refresh: Performance Trim with New Wheels & Features
With anticipations around the Tesla Model Y Juniper’s price rising significantly due to the potential removal of the EV tax credit under the incoming Trump administration, its most potent and costly Performance variant has been spotted undergoing road tests.
Current Pricing and Performance
At present, the AWD Model Y Performance starts at $51,490 without any tax incentives, showcasing an impressive 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds, which is remarkable for a vehicle of its class and weight.
However, this performance comes at the cost of range, as it can only achieve 277 miles on a single charge – which is 60 miles less than the RWD alternative. The Model Y Juniper is anticipated to address this issue, thanks to a larger battery pack and Tesla’s more efficient 4th-generation electric motors.
Observations from Road Testing
The Tesla enthusiast who recorded this Model Y Juniper Performance prototype actually possesses the current Performance trim in the same shade. This allowed for a more accurate comparison between the appearance and driving dynamics than what other spy shots typically offer.
They were quite certain this was the Model Y Juniper Performance version, not just because of the Ultra Red color, but also due to the distinctive ride height and the stiffer suspension that defines the sportiest Model Y trim, along with the rear spoiler that was noticeable under the camouflage.
Design Features and Innovations
Another clear indicator was the side vent on the front bumper, reminiscent of what Tesla introduced for enhanced cooling and a more aggressive look on the upgraded Model 3 Performance. Additionally, a new set of 20-inch wheels caught their eye, seemingly inspired by the Model 3 Highland Performance trim.
Tesla has dubbed these wheels “Proton,” but it remains uncertain if this name will carry over to the Model Y Juniper Performance options. The fact that these wheels were also covered in camouflage, similar to the rest of the vehicle, suggests they are indeed a fresh design meant specifically for this model.
Interior and Additional Features
Tesla has started to camouflage the side mirrors of the Model Y Juniper test units after multiple sightings hinted at a new, more angular shape, potentially with upgraded functions. In this instance, the mirrors were not covered but had strange wires extending to them from beneath the camouflage.
In addition to a lower and more aggressively styled exterior, the interior has also been revamped. The occupant of the Model Y Juniper test vehicle appears to be sitting in a new type of seat, still clad in nylon, with earlier sightings confirming a sharper, more angular headrest design.
Overall, it will be fascinating to discover the specs of the Model Y Juniper Performance, particularly its acceleration and range, given the new motors and larger battery size, along with its bolder styling. Tesla is slated to unveil the Model Y Juniper in January, as the Gigafactory in Shanghai prepares for mass production.
Source: Link
Tags: electric vehicle, Tesla Model Y Juniper, Tesla Performance trim
November 10, 2024
Rivian R2 Battery Outperforms Tesla Model Y Juniper 4680 Cells
In its latest financial report for shareholders, Rivian has revealed details about the propulsion system for its R2 compact SUV, which will be going head-to-head with the upcoming Tesla Model Y Juniper facelift.
Pricing Insights
Even with all the enhancements, the Juniper refresh is anticipated to be priced similarly to the existing Model Y, which begins at $44,990 before any incentives. Interestingly, Rivian has also set the R2’s price tag at the same amount, suggesting that the company plans to cut down on production expenses compared to its original R1 lineup that starts at $69,900.
Battery Innovations
Rivian shared that both the R2 and R3 will utilize LG’s new 4695 battery, boasting six times the energy density of the 2170 cells currently utilized in the R1 line and in the Model Y. Rivian and LG have inked a five-year deal for 67 GWh of 4695 cells, which is enough to power around 700,000 R2 SUVs.
Elon Musk mentioned during Tesla’s latest quarterly results presentation that the company might soon manufacture 4680 batteries, which could be the least expensive domestically produced cells thanks to advantages in manufacturing, such as the dry cathode method and federal subsidies.
Competitive Edge
There are whispers that Tesla aims to begin producing four types of 4680 battery packs next year for the Cybertruck, Model Y Juniper, Model 3, and Robotaxi, with each qualifying for federal tax credits. However, the 4680 cells used in the Model Y Juniper will be smaller than the 4695 cells being produced for the Rivian R2; although both have the same diameter, the 4695 cells are taller. Rivian claims that these larger cells will provide a 45% improvement in manufacturability and battery pack assembly, which will ultimately lead to a significant reduction in costs per kilowatt-hour (kWh) at the pack level compared to the R1 platform.
In essence, Rivian is opting for battery cells that have a higher energy density compared to what Tesla will use in the Model Y Juniper, which is likely to lower production costs and justify the similar price. Rivian noted, “Within the first year of production, these batteries are expected to be made at LG’s Queen Creek, Arizona facility, aligning with Rivian’s aim for domestic manufacturing and IRA compliance,” suggesting that the R2 will also be eligible for the full federal made-in-US tax credit.
Production Challenges
Until lately, Tesla faced challenges in producing 4680 cells at the same cost-efficiency as its suppliers, Panasonic and LG. It was only after presenting the first Cybertruck featuring the 4680 battery made through the economical dry cathode production method that Tesla began to assert it would reach cost parity with LG and Panasonic, potentially achieving lower costs factoring in federal subsidies.
It seems LG isn’t remaining idle either; its innovation in 4695 cells could offer some cost advantages for the Rivian R2 over the Model Y Juniper, depending on how quickly LG ramps up production in Arizona to take advantage of the federal tax credit of $35 per kWh.
Tags: LG 4695 battery, Rivian R2, Tesla Model Y Juniper
November 9, 2024
Model Y Juniper Seen with FSD Camera in Front Bumper
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.
Tags: Cybertruck, HW4 FSD, Tesla Model Y Juniper