Tag: 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.
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Tags: Juniper refresh, Lower-Priced Model Y, Tesla Model Y
February 27, 2025
Tesla Unveils New Model Y Juniper Refresh Early
Key Takeaways
1. Early Launch: Tesla has begun initial deliveries of the Model Y Juniper refresh in China ahead of the planned March release, signaling a positive outlook for the US launch.
2. New Features: The updated Model Y features design and interior changes, with a 5% improvement in range due to better power efficiency, but no changes to the powertrain or charging capabilities.
3. Cost Management: Design decisions aim to keep costs low for the best-selling Model Y, with potential future upgrades as Tesla achieves economies of scale.
4. Sales Challenges: Tesla’s sales in Europe dropped by 45% in January, leading to a new entry-level Model Y Juniper RWD priced at €44,990, while the longest-range model is available for €49,990 with delayed delivery.
5. Availability in China: The Model Y RWD can be ordered in China for about $36,310, including a limited-time extended warranty, with uncertainty about future pricing after February 28.
Tesla has hinted that the Model Y Juniper refresh will be available on February 26, and they have begun the initial deliveries in China today, just as they had promised.
Early Launch
Previously, Tesla planned to launch the new Model Y facelift in March, but they have successfully shipped it to customers earlier than expected. This early delivery is a positive sign for the upcoming US Juniper release as well.
New Features
Tesla kicked off Model Y deliveries with a promotional video showcasing updates in the vehicle’s design, aerodynamics, and interior. However, they did not mention any improvements to the powertrain, which remains unchanged.
The range of the new Model Y Juniper is around 5% better than the previous model, but this improvement comes from enhanced power efficiency rather than an increase in battery capacity. The SUV still supports the older 250 kW charging speed and lacks Tesla’s newer 48V low-voltage architecture.
Cost Management
Lars Moravy, Tesla’s chief engineer, stated that these design choices are made to keep the costs of their top-selling vehicle low. However, they may introduce further upgrades over time as they achieve more economies of scale.
Tesla will cease the sale of the initial Model Y Juniper Launch Series in China, which included an extended warranty, by the end of the work week. They have already stopped offering it in Europe.
Sales Challenges
In January, Tesla’s sales in Europe fell by 45%, likely due to Elon Musk’s contentious political actions there. As a result, European customers can now purchase the entry-level Model Y Juniper RWD starting at €44,990.
Additionally, Europe has received the new Model Y with the longest range of 386 miles (WLTP) for €49,990. However, those who place a preorder can expect delivery only in May.
Availability in China
As of today in China, any customer can visit a Tesla store and order the Model Y RWD for about $36,310. This price includes the Launch Series with an extended warranty until February 28, and it remains uncertain if the new Model Y will become cheaper after that date.
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Tags: electric vehicles, Juniper refresh, Tesla Model Y
February 24, 2025
Tesla Launching Affordable Model 2 and Updated Model S, X in 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla’s affordable car, possibly named Model 2 or Q, is set to launch in 2025, with assurances that it will not be inferior to existing models.
2. The success of the budget-friendly vehicle will heavily depend on its pricing, estimated to be between $22,000 and $25,000 after subsidies.
3. The design is expected to be a smaller version of the Model Y, featuring a 54 kWh battery with a range of 250 to 300 miles per charge.
4. Tesla is also planning refreshed versions of the Model S and Model X later this year, with a complete lineup refresh expected in 2025.
5. Current production efforts are focused on ramping up the Model Y Juniper refresh, with more details about the Model 2 and S/X updates to follow after its launch.
Tesla’s affordable car is set to launch in 2025, and chief engineer Lars Moravy assures that it will be “not worse” than Tesla’s other models, regardless of its lower price.
“The hardest part of this is to ensure that these cars are not inferior, so I can guarantee that they won’t be a huge downgrade from our current offerings,” Moravy stated.
Price Point is Key
While Moravy’s comments may not be the most enthusiastic regarding the upcoming budget-friendly vehicle, often referred to as the Model 2 or Q, its success will definitely rely on its pricing strategy.
Before Elon Musk chose to unveil the Cybercab first and then aim for its mass-market five-seater version, the anticipated cost for the Model 2 was estimated to range between $22,000 and $25,000, although this would likely be after any subsidies were applied.
Given that the Cybercab is expected to be priced below $30,000, the Model 2 could very well be Tesla’s long-awaited $25,000 vehicle.
Specs and Design
In terms of design and specifications, reports suggest that it will resemble a smaller version of the Model Y, equipped with a 54 kWh battery that offers a range between 250 to 300 miles per charge, thanks to its lighter build. Recently, a drone flight over Giga Texas spotted a disguised test model that seemed to mirror a compact Model Y, leading to speculation that this is indeed Tesla’s prototype for the affordable car.
In addition to the budget vehicle, Tesla is also planning to release refreshed versions of the Model S and Model X later this year, according to Lars. “We’ll be working on those later this year since everyone here has a soft spot for the S/X,” he mentioned, hinting that a complete refresh of the Tesla lineup could be expected in 2025.
Focus on Production
For the moment, Moravy is completely concentrated on ramping up production for the Model Y Juniper refresh, which will utilize all four Tesla Gigafactories simultaneously. Thus, more information about the Model S/X updates or the economical Model 2 is likely to emerge only after the Model Y launch.
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Tags: Lars Moravy, Tesla Model 2, Tesla Model Y
February 22, 2025
Cheaper Model Y Juniper Now Available with Longest RWD Range
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla has opened preorders for the affordable RWD Model Y Juniper version, priced at $60,000 in the US.
2. In Europe, the AWD Long Range version is available for €52,990, with the lowest-priced RWD model starting at €44,990.
3. The Long Range RWD model offers a range of 386 miles, but may not be available in the US due to battery sourcing restrictions.
4. The RWD Long Range variant is expected to launch later than premium versions, with availability anticipated by June.
5. The cheapest Model Y Juniper trim has a range of 310 miles and a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds, set for release in May or June.
Tesla has recently opened preorders for the RWD Model Y Juniper version, which is the most affordable option. This comes shortly after they released a more expensive facelift version of the vehicle.
Pricing and Features in the US
In the United States, the Model Y Juniper is offered as a Launch Series edition priced at $60,000. This version includes Full Self-Driving (FSD), premium wheels, and unique badging.
European Market Launch
In Europe, where FSD is not available, Tesla has introduced the more costly AWD Long Range version for €52,990 in Germany, along with its less expensive RWD versions. Sales in that region may not be as strong, prompting Tesla to quickly make available all variants of the Model Y Juniper refresh, including the base RWD model. The lowest-priced 2026 Model Y trim is set at €44,990, which is 15% cheaper than the highest trim. An interesting aspect of the Model Y facelift is the exclusive Long Range RWD version, which is unlikely to reach the US market.
Long Range RWD Capabilities
This new Long Range RWD model offers a significantly larger battery, boasting an impressive range of 386 miles. However, it likely features an LFP battery sourced from Chinese manufacturers such as CATL or BYD, meaning it probably won’t be available in the US while federal tax credits for domestically made vehicles are in place. By contrast, the Long Range AWD Model Y Juniper can achieve 364 miles on a single charge, according to the European WLTP cycle, which is around 10% less strict than the EPA ratings used in the US.
Despite this, the 2026 Model Y Juniper LR AWD trim provides better range compared to its earlier version, which was rated for 600 km (373 miles) on 19-inch wheels under the same WLTP cycle. The current facelift utilizes the same batteries as its predecessor, so the enhanced range is attributed to improved aerodynamics and efficiency, rather than an increase in battery capacity, which Tesla claims would have made it too expensive for a mass-market electric vehicle like the Model Y, its best seller.
Release Timeline and Performance
Although Tesla has shared the specifications and pricing for the RWD Model Y Juniper variants to give European consumers an option for a lower-priced trim, these models will launch later than the premium versions. The RWD Long Range model, which boasts the best range, is expected to be available as late as June, even though early buyers can place an order right now for €49,990. This Long Range Model Y RWD variant is equipped with a more powerful rear motor and can go from 0-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, despite the added weight of the larger battery.
On the other hand, the least expensive Model Y Juniper trim has a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.9 seconds. While this might appear to be a minor trade-off for saving five grand, it also has the smallest battery and the shortest range, which is 310 miles on the WLTP cycle. Tesla has stated that the cheapest Model Y is expected to be released in May or June, unlike the premium Long Range AWD version, which is set for a March release.
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Tags: Juniper, RWD, Tesla Model Y
February 18, 2025
Tesla Model Y vs Xiaomi SU7: Shockingly Different Crash Damage
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla Model Y sustained minimal damage compared to the severely damaged Xiaomi SU7 after a collision in a tunnel in China.
2. The crash occurred when the Xiaomi SU7 collided with the rear of the Model Y, but details about the cause and passenger conditions remain unclear.
3. Tesla enthusiasts are highlighting the Model Y’s damage as evidence of its superior safety, but this perspective may be misleading.
4. The Xiaomi SU7 features an armored frame and crumple zone to protect passengers by absorbing impact during a crash.
5. Both vehicles are designed with safety mechanisms, and it is hoped that injuries were minimized in this incident.
Some images of a collision involving a Tesla Model Y and a Xiaomi SU7 have begun to appear on social media, primarily shared by Tesla enthusiasts who are eager to highlight the minimal damage sustained by the Model Y compared to the severely damaged SU7. The incident took place in a tunnel in China, with three of the four images (as shown below) captured at the crash scene, while the fourth displays the Xiaomi SU7 later in the daylight.
Details of the Crash
It seems the SU7 collided with the rear of the Model Y, but the exact reason for the crash and the condition of those inside the vehicles remains unclear. The Tesla Model Y exhibits some impairment on the rear and back bumper, whereas the front of the Xiaomi SU7 is completely wrecked. Nonetheless, even though some Tesla supporters argue this demonstrates the superior safety of the Model Y and raises questions about the quality of the Xiaomi electric vehicle, this perspective is misleading.
Understanding Vehicle Safety
The Xiaomi SU7 is equipped with an armored frame designed to safeguard its passengers, and, similar to many vehicles, features a crumple zone at the front: this area is intended to absorb impact during a crash. This design allows the car to decelerate more gradually and lessens the force experienced by the occupants, thereby enhancing their protection. The Tesla Model Y has received high safety ratings from various organizations, so the level of damage observed in the rear in the photos is somewhat anticipated. It is hoped that the safety mechanisms in both electric cars were adequate to minimize injuries in this incident.
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Tags: Car Safety, Tesla Model Y, Xiaomi SU7
February 11, 2025
Tesla Model Y Juniper Gets Adaptive High Beam Headlights Upgrade
Key Takeaways
1. The new Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh will feature matrix headlights with adaptive high beams that adjust to prevent dazzling other drivers.
2. Adaptive headlights for the Model Y in the US are expected to be activated within a couple of months, with a software update for existing models and included in the 2026 refresh.
3. There is uncertainty about whether the adaptive high beam feature will be available at the Model Y’s launch in March.
4. The adaptive headlights will automatically adjust the beam for better visibility, dimming specific pixels when other vehicles are nearby.
5. Tesla has faced regulatory challenges in the US, but it is anticipated that the adaptive high beams will be activated soon.
The new Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh is set to feature matrix headlights and will include adaptive high beams that automatically turn off certain pixel patterns to prevent dazzling other drivers.
Adaptive High Beams Coming Soon
European versions of Teslas, like the Model 3 Highland refresh, have had the adaptive high beams for some time now. However, the US regulations are lagging a bit behind.
Lars Moravy, Tesla’s chief engineer, mentioned that the adaptive headlights feature for the Model Y in the US will be activated “in a couple of months.” Existing Model Y vehicles with matrix headlights will receive this update through software, while the 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh will come equipped with the adaptive headlights software right from the start.
Release Date Uncertainty
It’s still unclear whether the new Model Y facelift will have the adaptive high beam feature available when it launches in March, or if the “couple of months” refers to this model as well. The headlights on this new model are positioned a few inches lower than the previous Model Y and do not integrate into the front light bar.
Initially, the update for Tesla’s adaptive headlights in the US will enable automatic high beam switching when passing another vehicle, according to Lars Moravy. The pixel pattern will then adjust to provide an optimal balance between visibility and consideration for other drivers.
Improving Driving Experience
“When Adaptive Headlights is enabled,” Tesla states, “the beam of the headlights adjusts automatically to improve your driving view.” This includes dimming specific pixels of the high beams when other traffic is nearby, automatically switching from low to high beams on the highway, and adjusting the beams around corners.
Tesla has been discussing the introduction of adaptive high beams in the US for quite some time, and 2025 might finally see the actual launch of this sought-after feature.
The delay is due to the US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108 being stricter than the vehicle headlight regulations in Europe. The rules require that “the adaptive driving beams must be designed to conform to the photometry requirements of Table XXI when tested according to S14.9.3.12,” among other complex stipulations.
Navigating Regulations
Navigating these regulatory challenges is no small feat, but Tesla appears to have successfully maneuvered through the bureaucratic hurdles in the US and is expected to activate the Model Y’s adaptive high beams soon.
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Tags: Adaptive Headlights, matrix headlights, Tesla Model Y
February 9, 2025
Tesla Unveils Long Range Model Y with Efficient Low Resistance Tires
Tesla has made major enhancements to the wheels of the new 2026 Model Y Juniper facelift, now featuring the most efficient tires they’ve ever designed.
Improved Tire Performance
The tires on the new Model Y showcase very low rolling resistance while also providing improved handling and, importantly, reduced road noise, according to Tesla.
Enhanced Cabin Quietness
In addition, the company has upgraded the cabin’s insulation with features like acoustic glass installed all around, a more efficient fan for the air conditioning system, and carpeting that extends throughout the interior, even in the cupholders. These changes contribute to a notably quieter cabin experience in the Model Y Juniper refresh.
Additional Efficiency Features
However, the redesigned 2026 Model Y wheels offer more than just quietness. Alongside the new streamlined exterior and updated brake calipers, these enhancements lead to a lower coefficient of drag, further boosting overall efficiency.
With a 10% increase in efficiency, the new Model Y facelift boasts an official range of 327 miles, as certified by the EPA. This estimate represents over a 5% longer range on a single charge compared to the previous AWD Model Y.
Future Range Expectations
If the 2026 Model Y RWD Long Range variant achieves the same level of efficiency enhancement, it could reach around 353 miles of EPA range—this would be the longest range ever for a Model Y.
Prospective 2026 Model Y Juniper owners will benefit from the extra miles on a single charge, as the vehicle utilizes the same older 400V powertrain as its predecessor. This limitation means it won’t be compatible with Tesla’s latest V4 Superchargers, which currently deliver 325 kW and are set to be upgraded to 500 kW this year.
Affordability Considerations
Tesla explained that they chose not to include a larger battery or quicker charging system to keep the Model Y Juniper at a relatively affordable price point. As a result, the Cybertruck remains the only Tesla passenger vehicle equipped with the modern 800V architecture that will be on the roads for the foreseeable future.
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Tags: 2026 Juniper facelift, electric vehicle efficiency, Tesla Model Y
February 8, 2025
Improved Model Y Range: Quieter A/C and Enhanced Panoramic Roof
The updated Tesla Model Y Juniper facelift maintains the same battery as the earlier model, but it now boasts an official EPA range estimate of 327 miles on a single charge, which is a 5% improvement compared to its predecessor.
Efficiency Enhancements
According to Tesla engineers, this boost in range can be attributed to several efficiency enhancements made in both the vehicle’s design and energy use within the cabin. The more aerodynamic exterior design contributes to a lower drag coefficient, thanks to the updated styling and new brake calipers. Additionally, improvements in power management for cabin comfort features have also been unveiled.
Cabin Comfort Upgrades
One notable advancement is the cabin A/C system, which now functions effectively at lower fan speeds. This is made possible by innovative oscillating air vents that move side to side, allowing for better distribution of hot or cold air. Furthermore, the newly designed panoramic glass roof includes a double silver coating that enhances thermal insulation, requiring less energy for heating or cooling the cabin.
Sound Reduction Features
Interestingly, the upgrades aimed at enhancing HVAC efficiency, such as reduced fan speeds and improved air distribution, also contribute to Tesla’s goal of achieving a quieter cabin in the 2026 Model Y Juniper facelift. The company has added carpets throughout the interior, including in the cupholders, side trims, and trunk lids, to minimize rattling sounds.
In combination with new acoustic glass used in the Model Y Juniper refresh, these changes have resulted in a notable decrease in cabin noise, which is sure to please those who want to enjoy the upgraded audiophile-grade sound system.
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Tags: HVAC efficiency, Juniper facelift, Tesla Model Y
February 7, 2025
Model Y Juniper Refresh EPA Range Test: Longer Charge, Same Battery
When Tesla launches the 2026 Model Y Juniper facelift in March, it promises a longer distance on a single charge, according to the official EPA test estimates. The updated Model Y will deliver a 5% improvement in range compared to the earlier AWD model.
No Battery Capacity Boost
In a chat with two engineers from Tesla who were involved in the revamped Model Y, they revealed that there’s no increase in battery capacity for this facelifted version. Tesla aimed to keep the facelift economical and ensure fast charging, which is why it maintains the same battery systems and 250 kW charging setup, still using the older 400V powertrain found in its predecessor.
Internal Testing vs. EPA Estimates
When Tesla unveiled the New Model Y Long Range AWD Launch Series edition, which is the only trim available for order at the moment, it claimed it could achieve a range of 320 miles on a single charge. However, this figure is based on Tesla’s internal testing, which tends to be more rigorous than the EPA evaluations used for official estimates.
For example, the refresh of the Model 3 initially showed a range of 305 miles based on Tesla’s testing, but this was later adjusted to 316 miles once it received the official EPA rating. Last year, Tesla even paused sales of the 2025 Model Y AWD as it needed to comply with the EPA’s revised range testing procedure, which better reflects typical American driving patterns.
Improved Efficiency Features
This process led to an improved range once the official figures were released, and a similar situation has now arisen with the 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh, which boasts a 5% increase in range. Given that the older AWD model is rated for 311 miles, the new Model Y facelift should achieve approximately 327 miles of EPA range on a single charge, which should soon be confirmed in its official specifications as well.
Tesla has also reduced the drag coefficient of the Model Y Juniper refresh design from 0.23 Cd to 0.22 Cd, along with lowering its clearance. However, it’s not solely the aerodynamics that contribute to the longer range.
The Tesla engineers highlighted that lighter brake calipers and reduced tire resistance are also significant factors in enhancing the Model Y’s efficiency. They even examined how long the LED light in the center console would stay on, all in the name of energy conservation for this update.
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Tags: 2026 Juniper facelift, EPA range increase, Tesla Model Y
February 3, 2025
Model Y Juniper Facelift Panel Gaps and Light Bar Parallax Issues
Just like many other car manufacturers, especially those from Asia, Tesla is jumping on the trendy light bar trend to give the updated Model Y Juniper a fresh appeal.
They’ve added a distinctive reflective light bar at the back, along with a front light bar similar to the one seen on the Cybertruck or Cybercab. This front bar includes headlights and turn signals, making it quite unique.
Rear Light Bar Features
The rear light bar provides a gentle and spread-out light that helps illuminate the area behind the Juniper refresh during nighttime driving. On the other hand, the front light bar has a more conventional design, but sadly, it is segmented.
Instead of having a continuous light strip across the front like the Cybertruck, Tesla opted to divide it into three sections to accommodate the headlights and turn signals on either side.
Design Concerns
This segmented approach results in a less streamlined appearance compared to the Cybertruck, where the headlights are mounted significantly lower. It also creates some visual inconsistencies.
When you look from one side of the hood gap to the other, the spacing of the light bar between the two sections seems misaligned, reminding some of Tesla’s previous issues with panel gaps.
Despite this, the manufacturing quality of the Model Y Juniper vehicles currently showcased at Tesla showrooms is not in question, mainly due to a common optical illusion.
Manufacturing Quality Insights
The gap in the hood panel seems misaligned with the interruption of the light bar at its end, which is primarily caused by the parallax effect. This effect, measured by the angle of inclination, causes a noticeable shift in the appearance of an object when viewed from two different angles.
Tesla could have easily avoided this by using a single uninterrupted light bar or by considering the visual effects of parallax while inspecting the vehicle. The mass production of the refreshed Model Y is set to begin this month at all four major Gigafactories, meaning it may be too late for design modifications on the first units that will be available in a few weeks.
While this may seem like a minor issue, Tesla might eventually choose to adjust the positioning of the light bar along the hood’s gap line, along with addressing any other minor issues that will likely arise in the weeks and months following the release of the 2026 Model Y facelift.
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Tags: Juniper facelift, light bar design, Tesla Model Y