Tag: Tesla Model Y

  • Tesla Model Y Price Increase Due to Loss of Federal Tax Credit

    Tesla Model Y Price Increase Due to Loss of Federal Tax Credit

    Key Takeaways

    1. Federal Tax Credit Changes: Proposed legislation may eliminate federal tax credits for electric vehicles starting in 2026, affecting both new and used EV buyers.

    2. Tesla’s Ineligibility: Tesla will not qualify for future federal subsidies due to its high sales volume, impacting pricing and demand for the Model Y.

    3. Increased Costs for Buyers: The removal of tax credits could lead to significant increases in monthly payments for Model Y buyers, with estimates of over $100 to $150 more per month.

    4. Impact on Demand: Without federal tax credits, Tesla may face challenges in maintaining demand for its vehicles, including the Model Y and Cybertruck.

    5. Musk’s Outlook: Elon Musk believes the loss of tax incentives may favor Tesla long-term, but current declines in demand could test this view.

    Tesla might see a surge in Model Y sales later this year, as the options to use federal tax credits for down payments or to lower leasing costs could be ending in 2026.

    Changes in Tax Credits

    The Republican “One Big, Beautiful Bill” tax proposal aims to eliminate the clean energy credits and tax incentives that were part of the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act. This new GOP legislation would reduce some of the tax cuts from Trump’s first term, but it would also cut the federal tax credit for both new and used electric vehicles.

    Starting in 2026, there will be no $4,000 discounts available for used electric cars, and the $7,500 tax credit for new EV buyers will only apply to manufacturers that have sold fewer than 200,000 vehicles to date.

    Tesla’s Situation

    Tesla will not be eligible for the 2026 federal subsidy, given that it is currently the second-largest EV producer globally, just behind BYD, and sells more vehicles than any other electric car maker in the US. So, from January 1, 2026, the new Model Y will not qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit that it currently benefits from.

    Furthermore, the government plans to remove the $7,500 tax credit for commercial electric vehicles to help fund the extension of the 2017 tax cuts. This change could significantly affect Model Y buyers, as most electric vehicles in the US are leased. If the bill passes, automakers and dealers will need to charge the full MSRP after December 31 instead of passing the commercial EV tax credit to the buyer.

    Pricing Impact

    Currently priced at $44,990 for the base model, this change could lead to over a $100 increase in the monthly payment for the RWD Model Y. The difference in monthly payments for the Model Y AWD, which currently has an attractive APR financing deal, is expected to be around $150 more.

    As a result, Tesla may struggle with demand since none of its vehicles will be eligible for the federal tax credit in the coming year. Even the Cybertruck, which has sales lower than the 200,000 unit limit right now, will not qualify because the bill considers the manufacturer’s total sales.

    The government has been spending around $200 million each month to subsidize the price of the Tesla Model Y and other electric vehicles from different manufacturers, but these subsidies may be ending in 2026.

    Musk’s Response

    Back in November, Elon Musk downplayed the potential loss of EV tax incentives, suggesting it wouldn’t heavily impact Tesla. He remarked, “I guess that there would be some impact, but I think it would be devastating for our competitors.” Musk also mentioned that “long term, this probably actually helps Tesla,” but with the current decline in demand for Tesla vehicles, this assertion may soon be tested.

    To cope with the removal of the federal tax credit, Tesla might need to reduce prices, introduce new models like a rumored cheaper and smaller Model Y, or brace for the expected drop in demand due to the early elimination of these tax credits.

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  • Tesla Launches Affordable Model Y RWD with Longest Range

    Tesla Launches Affordable Model Y RWD with Longest Range

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Model Introduction: Tesla has launched the Model Y Long Range RWD trim, priced lower than the existing AWD version.

    2. Enhanced Range: The Long Range RWD offers a range of 357 miles per charge, 30 miles more than the AWD model, making it the longest range Model Y to date.

    3. Acceleration Performance: The RWD variant has slower acceleration (0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds) compared to the AWD (4.6 seconds), but the difference is minimal due to its lighter weight.

    4. Identical Features: The RWD model shares the same specifications as the AWD version, including heated seats and acoustic glass windows, but at a lower cost.

    5. Pricing: The starting price for the Model Y Long Range RWD is $44,990, which can be reduced to $37,490 with the federal tax credit.

    Tesla has unexpectedly introduced a new version of the Model Y in its order system, known as the Long Range RWD trim. This trim is priced lower than the only available AWD Model Y, which has been available since the original $60,000 Launch Series edition.

    Not the Smaller Version

    The Model Y Long Range RWD is not the more affordable, smaller version anticipated to arrive later this year, which will feature cloth seats and a smaller battery. Instead, it is simply a single-motor variant of the dual-motor AWD Model Y, lacking an electric drive unit at the front. While this reduces its off-road capabilities and acceleration performance, it lightens the vehicle, enabling it to travel further on a single charge.

    Impressive Range

    As noted, the new Model Y RWD trim boasts the longest range per charge of any Model Y to date. According to Tesla, EPA testing indicates a range of 357 miles, surpassing the existing Model Y AWD record by 30 miles. The earlier Model Y RWD had a smaller LFP battery and was only capable of 260 miles.

    The efficiency gains and aerodynamic improvements from the recent Juniper facelift have propelled the RWD trim to the forefront of the Model Y lineup. It shares the same battery size as its AWD counterpart but is lighter. This setup enables it to add 182 miles of range in just 15 minutes at a Tesla V3/V4 Supercharger, compared to 169 miles for the heavier AWD model.

    Slightly Slower Acceleration

    It goes without saying that the single-motor 2026 Model Y Long Range RWD is a bit slower in acceleration compared to the AWD version. It achieves 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds as opposed to the 4.6 seconds of the AWD model, but this difference is hardly significant. The lighter weight of the RWD trim means the acceleration difference is under a second, even without the second electric motor.

    Tesla has set the price of this electric motor at exactly $4,000, which is how much less the 2026 Model Y Long Range RWD costs when compared to the AWD version. The starting price for the Model Y RWD is $44,990, which includes 19-inch Crossflow Wheels that contribute to its outstanding range.

    Specifications and Features

    The rest of the specifications for the Model Y RWD are identical to the AWD model. It features heated and ventilated front seats, a heated rear bench that folds automatically, and dual-layer acoustic glass windows that enhance the experience of the 15-speaker sound system, complete with one subwoofer.

    An automatic trunk door and a newly designed quieter suspension system are also included as standard features. This means that for those who do not require AWD, the lower price of the Model Y RWD starts at $37,490, especially if the federal tax credit is applied while it’s still available.

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  • New Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic Colors

    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.

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    New Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic ColorsNew Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic ColorsNew Model Y in Diamond Black & Deep Blue Metallic Colors
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  • Tesla Model Y AWD Price Increase in US for New Diamond Black Color

    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.

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  • Model Y Adaptive High Beams Test Reveals Legacy Matrix Headlight Insights

    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.

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  • 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.

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  • Tesla Model Y Juniper Trims with White Interior Now More Affordable

    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.

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  • Volkswagen Overtakes Tesla in Europe EV Sales Amid Rising China Competition

    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.

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  • Xiaomi YU7 Leak: Tesla Model Y Outshined by Gold-Plated SU7 Ultra

    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.

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    Xiaomi YU7 Leak: Tesla Model Y Outshined by Gold-Plated SU7 UltraXiaomi YU7 Leak: Tesla Model Y Outshined by Gold-Plated SU7 Ultra
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  • Model Y Juniper: Brake-by-Wire & Heat Pump Features Explained

    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.

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    Model Y Juniper: Brake-by-Wire & Heat Pump Features Explained
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