Tag: Tesla Model Y

December 24, 2024
Tesla Model Y Juniper Facelift Revealed with New Features
The Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh is on the horizon, and it’s likely to launch in January as the updated Model Y begins mass production at Giga Shanghai.
Recently, there have been many sightings of the Juniper refresh in various locations, including China, Europe, and the United States. The latest sighting took place in California, where a Model Y Juniper test vehicle was seen on the highway. A third red light was visible through the camouflage at the back, suggesting that a rear light bar is part of the new design.
New Design Features
Insiders from Tesla’s Gigafactory in Shanghai have shared that the 2025 Model Y Juniper facelift will introduce several design updates, including the rear light bar. There are plans for a similar feature at the front, featuring “penetrating LED daytime running lights” positioned above a front end that eliminates the traditional grille, moving away from the usual SUV design.
Additionally, the interior will take on a more minimalist approach, inspired by the Model 3 Highland’s updates, complete with ambient lighting. The central console will now have a screen that pivots left and right, similar to what is found in the Model X and Model S.
Display and Performance Upgrades
The Model Y Juniper will keep the 15.4-inch diagonal display but will upgrade to a higher 2.5K resolution, aligning with the 2650x1440p panel seen in the Cybertruck. This could result in a pixel density of 195 pixels per inch, making it the highest among production Teslas.
Moreover, sources indicate that Tesla plans to enhance the Model Y Juniper’s battery capacity to 95 kWh, utilizing the upcoming 4th-generation electric motors. These new motors are expected to be more compact and efficient, promising an extended range compared to the current model.
Market Concerns
While the rear light bar has been anticipated for some time, the additions of the front light bar and the tilting central display are fresh insights into the refresh. However, Tesla must ensure that the production costs for the Model Y Juniper are lower than those of the current generation. This is crucial, as the company may lose the federal tax credit that significantly reduced the vehicle’s price in the U.S.
To avoid a dip in demand for their top-selling vehicle, Tesla might need to either lower manufacturing costs or raise the price of the Model Y Juniper. Both options carry risks that could affect the vehicle’s market performance.
Source: Link
Tags: Giga Shanghai, Juniper refresh, Tesla Model Y
December 14, 2024
Tesla Model Y Juniper: Design Upgrades Confirmed Ahead of Launch
A new short video showing the upcoming Tesla Model Y “Juniper” facelift has appeared, giving us a glimpse of some exciting design updates. Spotted in San Jose, the test vehicle remains (sadly) camouflaged, but it confirms important features like redesigned headlights and minor modifications to its body shape.
Design Details Revealed
The video shared on X/Twitter shows a refreshed Model Y featuring two-part headlights, which are quite similar to the recent designs seen in the Cybertruck. This indicates that Tesla is unifying its design style across various models, giving the Model Y Juniper a sharper and more contemporary look at the front.
Potential New Features
Previous reports suggested that the Model Y Juniper could include a front bumper camera to assist with low-speed driving and parking, instead of offering Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities. Although the camera has not been confirmed yet, its addition would certainly help owners maneuvering in tight spots.
Hardware Upgrades Expected
In addition to exterior changes, the facelift is anticipated to include significant updates to the hardware. Tesla is likely planning to install HW4 FSD hardware, a better powertrain setup, and larger battery packs. This could lead to improved range and efficiency, possibly supported by an 800V high-voltage system and enhanced CATL batteries.
Reports have also suggested that the Model Y Juniper might make its debut as soon as January 2025, with production lines already gearing up for the updated model. Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory is supposedly sharing production lines between the current Model Y and the Juniper version, though at a reduced ratio. Either way, it’s clear that Tesla is gradually introducing the new design before ramping up full production next year.
Impact on Pricing and Competition
It’s important to note that the updated Model Y will not be eligible for federal tax credits starting in 2025, following changes in government incentives for electric vehicles. This might encourage Tesla to keep the Model Y’s price competitive, compensating for the loss of tax credits by optimizing manufacturing costs. The vehicle will likely face tougher competition from updated models from traditional automakers and Chinese EV brands. Key competitors include BYD and Volkswagen, both of whom have seen success with affordable models in the electric vehicle market.
If the planned updates — including a modernized look, HW4 hardware, and enhanced efficiency — are implemented as anticipated, the Model Y Juniper could become Tesla’s standout model. For now, sightings like these in San Jose are all we have to go on, but that could change pretty soon.
Source: Link
Tags: electric vehicles, Juniper facelift, Tesla Model Y
December 14, 2024
Tesla Model Y Loses Top Spot to Toyota and BYD Gains Ground
Tesla is currently offering its largest set of discounts and incentives ever for the Model Y and Model 3, aiming to end the year strong with a record number of deliveries.
Incentives and Competition
Even with 0% APR financing and free Supercharging deals, it might not be enough for the Model Y to reclaim its title of the world’s top-selling vehicle, a title it held last year.
Recent data from 162 countries shows that the Model Y has slipped from its position at the top of global vehicle sales. The Toyota Corolla has taken back its crown as the best-selling car worldwide, selling 901,991 units.
Sales Figures
In the same timeframe, Tesla sold 865,868 Model Y vehicles, while the Toyota RAV4 followed closely behind with 836,258 units sold, marking a significant 13.7% increase in sales year-on-year.
The highest growth rate in sales belongs to BYD, with its Song model experiencing an impressive 42% surge compared to last year. BYD is prioritizing international sales and continues to open new showrooms in different countries, and this strategy appears to be working well.
Market Dynamics
Toyota had previously dominated the rankings for popular vehicle models until Tesla introduced its mid-range crossover SUV, which was quickly embraced by early EV enthusiasts. While electric vehicle sales are currently slowing down, Tesla still enjoys advantages in production costs and brand recognition over competitors. Thus, moving from first to second place in global vehicle sales is still a commendable achievement.
Additionally, Tesla is set to unveil the Model Y refresh, codenamed Juniper, in the first quarter of next year. This means that the Model Y could potentially reclaim its status as the world’s most popular vehicle in 2025 after a short break from the top position this year.
Source: Link
Tags: BYD Song, Tesla Model Y, Toyota Corolla
November 18, 2024
Tesla Model Y Owners Face $2.40 Charging Tax at Wisconsin Superchargers
Wisconsin has rolled out a new tax on electric vehicle charging, imposing a fee of three cents per kWh for any power delivered through Level 3 chargers up to 250 kW, as well as Level 1 and Level 2 chargers installed after March 22.
Cost Impact on Tesla Owners
For owners of the Tesla Model Y in Wisconsin, this change means an additional cost of about $2.40 for a complete charging session at these stations. The 2023 Wisconsin Act 121 states that the registration and excise tax applies no matter if the charging station is publicly accessible or if consumers are charged for the electricity.
Tax Affects All EV Owners
This new fee will also impact those who own older models like the Model S or X, who previously enjoyed free Supercharging for life. On top of this, there’s already a considerable $175 “combined electric surcharge fee,” acting as an annual road tax for electric vehicle owners in the state.
Starting January 1, 2025, all owners or operators of EV charging stations must register online with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue before they can begin delivering electricity that is subject to the excise tax. Home charging stations, such as the Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector, won’t be affected by this new tax unless they are installed in public areas like hotels.
Reason Behind the Tax
David Casey, the Secretary Designee of the Department of Revenue, has stated that the additional EV charging tax is necessary for road upkeep. He insists that the excise tax is a vital funding source for preserving Wisconsin’s roads and infrastructure. It aims to ensure ongoing financial support for repairs and construction as more drivers switch to electric vehicles, while also creating a fair system where all motorists contribute to road maintenance costs.
After a lengthy period of leniency for electric vehicle owners, many states are now implementing specific annual road taxes. These EV taxes often surpass those for traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Revenue departments argue that electric cars are generally heavier and contribute to more wear and tear on local roads. Nonetheless, Wisconsin’s latest charge on EV charging sessions seems like a case of double taxation for road maintenance.
Source: Link,Link
Tags: Electric Vehicle Road Tax, Tesla Model Y, Wisconsin EV Charging Tax
November 12, 2024
Tesla Optimizes Sentry Mode to Reduce Battery Drain from Cameras
Tesla has been facing complaints regarding its Sentry Mode system, which notifies owners about suspicious activities near their cars. Users have found that this feature has been draining the battery since it was introduced.
Functionality of Sentry Mode
Sentry Mode is turned off by default but can be activated using voice commands or through the app. This feature keeps the necessary cameras and sensors powered up, allowing them to record movements around a locked Tesla in Park mode. However, the ongoing power needed for the cameras in Sentry Mode has turned out to be a significant battery drain. The system must constantly process and record a large amount of video footage, which can be saved on a dedicated drive located in the glove compartment.
Law Enforcement Awareness
Police are familiar with Tesla’s Sentry Mode. There have been instances where officers were unable to reach the vehicle’s owner. In such cases, they have towed the car to the nearest precinct under a court order to access the potential crime scene recordings for investigations.
Addressing Battery Drain
To tackle the battery drain issue associated with Sentry Mode, Tesla released the 2024.32.6 software update. This update reduces power consumption by shutting down the 12V outlets and USB ports in theft-prevention mode. This means that devices plugged into these ports won’t be able to charge or draw from the main battery.
While this might not be the best solution for those who like to keep their devices charging in the car or need to run a portable fridge overnight, it does help reduce the immediate power drain caused by Sentry Mode.
Improvements with New Updates
For the ongoing power drain caused by processing video recordings from multiple cameras— which can consume as much as 14% of a Model Y’s battery in a single day—Tesla has introduced a more sophisticated solution. The recent 2024.38.4 software update promises an up to 40% decrease in Sentry Mode battery drain. The company has optimized how the video feed is processed, which helps preserve battery capacity while Sentry Mode is activated.
This update is initially being rolled out to the Cybertruck, and it remains unclear how quickly the Model 3 and Model Y will receive the significant improvements in battery drain for Sentry Mode.
Tags: battery drain, Sentry Mode, Tesla Model Y
October 18, 2024
Cybertruck and Honda Prologue Gain Popularity as EV Lease Prices Fall
Thanks to the 16,692 sales of the Cybertruck in the third quarter, Tesla now holds the top three spots in the list of the most loved electric vehicles in America.
Competition in the EV Market
In fourth place is the Ford Mustang Mach-E, with 13,392 units sold. Meanwhile, a surprising newcomer has entered the top five: the Honda Prologue, which has successfully sold 12,644 electric SUVs. This shift in the rankings highlights the growing diversity and competition in the EV market.
Affordable Leasing Options
A contributing factor to the Prologue’s success might be its attractive lease options starting at $289 per month. Currently, leasing has become the favored method for purchasing an electric vehicle in the U.S., making up 80% of the market, a notable rise from just 16% at the start of this year. Moreover, as new EV prices have dropped, the average monthly lease payment has plummeted from $950 to $582, making EVs more accessible to a wider audience.
Changes in Used EV Pricing
The inventory of second-hand EVs is also on the rise at dealerships, prompting sellers to reduce prices by 25%. As a result, the average price of a used EV has now dipped below that of a traditional gas-powered car.
Despite these trends, the pricy $100,000 Cybertruck has secured its position as the third best-selling EV in the United States during the last quarter. With Tesla already launching a more affordable version that is not part of the Foundation Series, it is expected to maintain its ranking in Q4.
Tesla’s Popular Models
The Model Y and Model 3, which are the top-selling and second-best-selling electric cars in America, are likely to stay at the forefront as Tesla has rolled out attractive 0% APR financing and zero down payment offers for these models.
Sources: WSJ, KBB (PDF)
Tags: Cybertruck, Honda Prologue, Tesla Model Y
October 5, 2024
Cheapest Model Y Now Offers 5% Longer Range Per Charge
Tesla appears to be quite cautious, or maybe more accurately, realistic, when it comes to estimating the range of its own electric vehicles.
Before the EPA put the base Model Y RWD Long Range through its updated and rigorous range testing, Tesla estimated its least expensive Model Y would have a range of 320 miles on its own.
Now that the EPA has completed testing under its stricter standards, the official range for the Model Y RWD LR is an impressive 337 miles, which is 5.3% more than Tesla’s earlier estimate.
Updated Range Makes Model Y More Attractive
Unsurprisingly, Tesla quickly adjusted the Model Y Long Range RWD‘s official range to reflect this new figure, making this most affordable Model Y not only the cheapest but also the one with the best range of all the versions they offer. It can now be purchased for under $35,000, especially with some inventory discounts.
In Europe, Tesla has been offering a more economical RWD Model Y since spring, boasting an even longer range of 375 miles. However, this figure comes from the local WLTP cycle, which is usually about 10% more lenient than the EPA’s standards. The European version of the 375-mile Model Y RWD LR is equipped with 2170 cells, the same as the AWD version sold in the U.S., qualifying it for the entire federal tax credit.
Challenges with Battery Variants
Tesla faced some difficulties with the base Model 3 RWD that used the Chinese LFP battery, which they have since phased out because it turned out to be pricier than the AWD version that is eligible for the full tax credit.
The Model 3 RWD LR, now the cheapest option, has a range of 363 miles, making it the longest range among Tesla’s two top-selling models. While the highest range still goes to the base Model S, rated for an astounding 402 miles, it is worth noting that it sells in much lower numbers, starting at $74,990.
Recently, the EPA updated its electric vehicle range testing standards, placing greater importance on highway driving efficiency to better reflect real driving habits in America.
So, even though Tesla had to lower some of its official Model Y range estimates, the fact that the base Model Y RWD is now rated at 337 miles on the new EPA cycle is quite remarkable.
Tags: Electric Vehicle Range, EPA testing, Tesla Model Y
October 1, 2024
Tesla Market Share Falls Below 50% as Model Y Gains Popularity
Tesla’s Model Y is nearing the title of the best-selling car in the United States, surpassing the Toyota RAV4, just as it previously did with the Ford F-150 truck. As the most American-made passenger vehicle, the Model Y has gained popularity thanks to various deals and tax incentives, despite an upcoming facelift called Juniper.
Market Share Dynamics
While the Model Y is currently the world’s top-selling passenger vehicle, Tesla’s overall electric vehicle (EV) market share in the US appears to be declining. Just a couple of years ago, Tesla accounted for over 80% of the electric vehicle sales in the country. Recent analyses suggest that this figure may have dipped below 50% for the first time, as preliminary delivery data is set to be revealed tomorrow.
The decline in Tesla’s popularity among electric vehicle buyers is due to increasing competition and a lack of new models. Rivals such as Hyundai, Kia, and Ford are gaining market share, while Tesla experiences an unprecedented loss. This downturn occurs even as the overall EV market has grown, reaching 9% of total vehicle sales in the US—its highest point ever.
Q3 Delivery Estimates
Tesla’s delivery estimates for the third quarter are projected to reach 472,000 units, which would still keep the company in the “less than 50%” market share territory since the launch of the Model Y. In 2022, Tesla’s brand loyalty fell below the industry average for the first time, leading S&P analysts to predict a gradual decline toward a 20% market share, driven by the influx of competitive electric vehicle options.
Analysts have identified 2025 as a critical year when Tesla may drop to the 20% market share threshold, with many automakers preparing to launch their own mass-market EVs. However, a general drop in demand for electric cars might require a reassessment of this prediction. The rapid decline from 80% to below 50% market share in just two years suggests that increased competition could exert further pressure on Tesla’s market position.
Future Prospects
In 2025, Tesla plans to introduce the Juniper refresh of the Model Y, lower the price of the Cybertruck, and launch its first Robotaxi service. These developments could help stabilize Tesla’s market share against competitors like Hyundai, Ford, and GM, which is now shipping the most affordable 300-mile electric vehicle in the US.
WolfStreet & TroyTeslike (X) via CleanTechnica.
Tags: EV Market Share, Ford F-150, Tesla Model Y
September 16, 2024
NIO Onvo L60 Review: Why Tesla Model Y Juniper May Be Obsolete
With its 900V architecture, an impressive drag coefficient of 0.229, swappable battery, a more energy-efficient drivetrain, and a significantly lower starting price, the new Onvo L60 crossover seems to outshine the Model Y Juniper even before Tesla’s major reveal.
Design and Efficiency
The Onvo L60 is larger than the Model Y but has a lower profile and a superior drag coefficient compared to the existing Y model. The vehicle’s design, along with NIO’s lightweight 900V motors and powertrain, contributes to its remarkable energy efficiency of 12.7 kWh/100km in the all-wheel-drive version, which easily surpasses the dual-motor Model Y.
Battery and Charging
Equipped with an up to 85 kWh LFP battery pack, which is notably thin and forms the floor of the Onvo L60, the car offers spacious rear seating despite its sleek, aerodynamic rear design. Charging takes between 20 and 25 minutes, but future owners can also utilize any current NIO battery swap station for a quick battery change in just a few minutes.
Interior Features and Performance
Inside, the Onvo L60 boasts heated and vented massage front seats, a sizable 17.2-inch main display, a smaller screen for rear passengers, a 50W wireless charging pad, and a 1000W sound system equipped with 18 speakers. Its driver-assist system functions on highways and in urban settings, using 13 cameras and a 4D mmWave radar for accurate monitoring and autoparking.
With a 0-60 mph time of just 4.6 seconds, the Onvo L60 combines luxury and performance while undercutting the Model Y’s price by over $4,000. If Tesla launches the Juniper at the same price point as the previous model, it will face stiff competition from the impressive new L60.
NIO introduced its Onvo brand on May 15, with the first model set to debut on September 19, featuring a major event to unveil the L60’s specifications, pricing, and battery-as-a-service discounts that could lower its price to around $22,500.
Tags: NIO, Onvo L60, Tesla Model Y