Tag: Tesla

January 13, 2025
Tesla Model Y Juniper Returns to the US Market Again
Tesla has introduced the eagerly awaited Model Y “Juniper” in China. Although the company hasn’t started accepting orders locally, recent sightings of a prototype suggest that it might be available soon.
Exciting Prototype Sightings
A user on X, known as @Teslaconomics, shared a video showcasing a covered Model Y “Juniper.” This vehicle was seen in Santa Clara, California, where both the front and rear bumpers were wrapped. Given that Tesla’s engineering headquarters is nearby, it makes sense that the new Model Y would be undergoing testing in this area.
Ongoing Concealment
Observers in the Bay Area noted some Model Ys with their front and rear parts hidden as late as 2024. It’s quite curious that Tesla still covers the prototypes, even though the updated version is set to debut in China, with deliveries expected by March 2025.
Global Availability Still Uncertain
Tesla has yet to announce when the Model Y “Juniper” will be ready for sale in the United States or other parts of the world. If the company’s release strategy for the Model 3 “Highland” is any indication, U.S. customers might only have to wait a few months before they can start placing orders.
The update for the Tesla Model Y “Juniper” includes a new wide-view front camera, bringing the total camera count to eight. Some exterior modifications are also present, such as updated bumpers, light bars at both the front and back, along with aerodynamic enhancements. Inside, improvements feature a rear display screen akin to the one in the Model 3 “Highland,” ventilated seating, and better sound insulation for a more peaceful ride.
Source:
Link
Tags: EV, Model Y Juniper, Tesla
January 10, 2025
Tesla Cuts Cybertruck Production Amid Model Y Staffing Shift
It’s been clear for a while that interest in the Tesla Cybertruck is decreasing, as images of lots filled with unsold Cybertrucks and reports of quicker delivery times are spreading online. Now, there’s stronger proof that the Cybertruck isn’t performing as well in sales as Tesla had hoped.
Survey Insights
Sources close to the situation shared with Business Insider that a survey took place in December. It asked workers on the Cybertruck production line about their job preferences, while also informing them of upcoming transitions to the Model Y assembly line. Furthermore, two independent insiders indicated to Business Insider that Tesla plans to reduce the overall production of the Cybertruck.
This survey was said to follow a notification to some Cybertruck assembly workers that they wouldn’t need to come to work in December 2024, effectively placing them on a temporary leave while production slowed. Thankfully, this break lasted only three days, but soon after, updates to the production schedule were made public.
Production Challenges
Insiders claim that not enough workers from the Cybertruck line chose to switch to the Model Y production line, leading to some being compelled to transfer when the new schedule took effect in January. Since production of the Cybertruck began in November 2023, there have been inconsistent reports regarding output, with battery supply chain issues being among the top challenges for the electric pickup.
Tesla might also be focusing on ramping up production for the Model Y Juniper refresh, which is anticipated to be very popular upon its release later this year, considering the Model Y’s incredible success in the market.
Source:
Link
Tags: Cybertruck, Model Y, Tesla
January 10, 2025
2025 Model Y Juniper Battery Capacity Leak: Minimal Range Boost
The recent announcement of the two Model Y Juniper versions has left some Tesla fans feeling let down regarding the battery sizes.
Battery Expectations
Before the reveal, there were whispers that the Model Y Juniper would feature a more spacious 95 kWh battery on the high-performance model and a new 66 kWh manganese phosphate M3P battery from CATL for the entry-level RWD variant. However, a report discussing the lukewarm response from Xiaomi’s CEO to the Juniper news showed that the anticipated battery capacity for the 2025 Model Y has remained mostly unchanged.
Current Specifications
The 2025 Model Y Juniper AWD Long Range is said to utilize a battery pack with a usable capacity of 78.4 kWh, which translates to around 80 kWh in total battery size. This is the same capacity as the existing Long Range and Performance models available in the US. On the other hand, the base RWD Model Y Juniper will not be available in the US market due to its Chinese LFP cells from CATL, yet it features a 62.5 kWh usable capacity, slightly above the earlier 60 kWh pack of the Standard Range Model Y that was previously sold in the US.
Range Insights
This situation accounts for the 2025 AWD Model Y offering just about a 3% increase in range compared to its predecessor, while the RWD model, which has a marginally larger battery, boasts a 7% improvement in range. Nonetheless, it appears that both RWD and AWD Model Y Juniper trims gain their range benefits more from design improvements and powertrain efficiency rather than just larger battery sizes.
Tesla mentions that they’ve completely overhauled the exterior design, from the front bumper to the taillights, to maximize efficiency and extend the range from every charge. The Model Y Juniper is designed to be lighter than its predecessor, with enhanced aerodynamics, and the company emphasizes that it has been “redesigned from front to back to improve range, performance and longevity.”
Future Expectations
In summary, the minimal range improvement of the 2025 Model Y Juniper compared to the earlier model can be attributed to slight enhancements in drivetrain efficiency and a lower drag coefficient of 0.22, down from the previous 0.23. Enthusiasts hoping for a bigger battery in the Model Y Juniper refresh may need to wait for the US version, which is expected to feature Tesla’s 4680 battery technology from the Cybertruck. This version may finally offer the rumored larger 95 kWh battery pack for the pricier AWD and Performance models.
However, any substantial upgrade in battery capacity will likely come with a price hike. There’s skepticism from CATL regarding Elon Musk’s ambitious plans for reducing manufacturing costs of the 4680 battery cells, with its CEO expressing doubts about achieving such significant cost cuts.
Tesla could potentially offset these costs with federal tax credits for its domestically produced batteries, which might allow the 2025 Model Y to launch in the US with an improved range, not just for bragging rights.
Source:
Link
Tags: 4680 battery, Model Y Juniper, Tesla
January 10, 2025
New Model Y Juniper Facelift Offers 6 and 7 Seat Options
Last August, a reliable source regarding Tesla’s plans in China indicated that the Model Y Juniper facelift would debut there in March.
Tesla’s Announcement
Today, Tesla confirmed this refresh, now referred to as the New Model Y. The information from the source was accurate, as Tesla stated that “deliveries are expected to begin in March, pending regulatory approval.”
New Configurations
The source also mentioned a seven-seat Model Y Juniper version would be available, which isn’t surprising. Interestingly, China might also receive a unique six-seat Model Y refresh version. On the Model Y Juniper ordering page, the refresh shows a “seat layout” selection beneath the options for 19-inch standard or 20-inch Helix wheels for the first time. Currently, only a 5-seater version exists, but the new seating option suggests more configurations are on the way.
Future Launches
Tesla plans to roll out the 7-seat Juniper model in the last quarter of 2025, alongside a new 6-seat layout that is quite sought after by car owners in China. Several family vehicles there provide six full-size seats, unlike the typical 2-3-2 setup with a tight third row found in the current 7-seat Model Y.
This may hint at Tesla’s intention to offer a seating layout choice, rather than merely adding a 7-seat configuration as an additional option. However, it’s uncertain whether the potential 6-seat Model Y Juniper refresh will be available outside of China, as that configuration isn’t as favored in other regions.
Upgraded Features
The new Model Y Juniper facelift features significantly enhanced seats, offering ventilation in the front and power reclining for the back seats, along with an electrically folding bench that creates a large cargo area. The redesigned Juniper seats also have a different shape, featuring sharper headrest padding with contrasting stitching.
Source:
Link
Tags: 6-seat configuration, Model Y Juniper, Tesla
January 7, 2025
Tesla Ships Parts to Owners for DIY Repairs with Cybertruck Wiring
Tesla is expanding its self-repair program by offering parts directly to its vehicle owners. While you can’t buy the $15,750 Model Y battery, you can get items like brake rotors and calipers.
New Offerings for Owners
Previously, Tesla only provided basic items such as replacement wipers or air filters. Now, they are adding more components to their direct-to-consumer catalog, which is expected “to be expanded with future releases.” California’s right-to-repair law may be influencing this change, especially since Tesla has recently shared an interactive wiring diagram for the Cybertruck. This change is beneficial for owners, allowing them to perform simple repairs themselves and avoid service center visits.
Pricing and Availability
For example, you can order the Model Y brake rotors, part number 1188611-00-A, for $160 directly from Tesla, with a delivery time of about a week. Currently, these repair parts can only be sent to a US address. This suggests that Tesla’s willingness to sell parts directly is partly due to the right-to-repair movement at both the state and federal levels, which has even prompted companies like Apple to provide repair parts, tools, and diagrams to third-party repair shops.
Previous Ordering Process
In the past, if someone wanted to do a simple brake job, they had to order the part to be delivered to a Tesla Service Center and then pick it up from there. The only Tesla vehicle without any direct-to-consumer repair parts listed in its Electronic Repair Catalog is the Cybertruck, which is understandable due to production ramp challenges. As the Cybertruck becomes more widely available and early adopter vehicles need services like brake replacements, it’s likely that Tesla will add more Cybertruck parts to their catalog.
You can also find the Power Stop carbon fiber ceramic brake pads for the Tesla Model Y on Amazon.
Source: Link
Tags: Model Y, right-to-repair, Tesla
January 6, 2025
Tesla Cybertruck Price Drops with New Federal Tax Credit
Tesla’s Cybertruck stands out as one of the most American-made vehicles, boasting that 90% of its components come from the US, Canada, or Mexico. The assembly takes place at Tesla’s vast Gigafactory located in Texas.
Since its launch, the Cybertruck has qualified for the federal made-in-US electric vehicle tax credit. However, due to its initial pricing above the government’s set eligibility limit, first buyers had to purchase it for over $100,000 without receiving any subsidies.
Price Drop and Tax Credit
Recently, Tesla has stopped making the exclusive Foundation Series units and shifted to delivering regular dual- and tri-motor Cybertrucks. This change effectively reduced the price of the Cybertruck by $20,000, allowing the dual-motor version to fall below the $80,000 limit. This change has made it eligible for the $7,500 government EV tax credit, which has been available for Tesla’s other models for some time now.
With the IRS now listing the Cybertruck as a qualifying vehicle for the full government EV tax credit since the start of the year, it has created a dilemma for early buyers. These customers are facing significant losses from their purchases, as the reservation list ballooned to 2.5 million people, leading to a spike in second-hand prices that soared above the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) about a year ago. Tesla had previously restricted owners from reselling their vehicles for several quarters but relaxed these rules once production could keep up with demand.
Market Changes and Buyer Struggles
As the initial orders were filled, the reservation list for the high-priced Cybertruck quickly diminished. Those who opted for the more affordable dual-motor Foundation Series, which initially cost over $100,000, are now confronted with a starting price of just $70,500 after accounting for tax and referral credits.
A particular example involves an owner who invested $115,000 into their Cybertruck, including California sales tax, Tesla’s destination fee, and a matte black wrap. This individual now reports having no buyers at an asking price of $89,000.
Comparing Prices and Options
It comes as no surprise that even when adding Full Self-Driving (FSD) and other features that were part of the Foundation Series trim, the total cost for a new all-wheel-drive Cybertruck only reaches $86,000.
It’s worth noting that the Foundation Series trim being sold is not in pristine condition, having only been driven for 2,800 miles. Its value has plummeted by over twenty thousand dollars, especially with rumors of a more economical rear-wheel-drive model set to launch later this year.
Source: Link
Tags: Cybertruck, EV tax credit, Tesla
January 6, 2025
Best Model Y Juniper Refresh Images: New Seats & Light Bar Turn Signals
The new Model Y Juniper facelift has been seen being tested in multiple locations including the US, UK, and China, suggesting that an announcement about its release is imminent.
Production Insights
Reports from the Berlin Gigafactory indicate that Tesla will manufacture the 2025 Model Y Juniper for Europe there. Employees are being called to a meeting next week to discuss the launch. However, the main production site is likely to be Tesla’s Giga Shanghai, which is now reportedly producing around 600 Model Y Juniper units daily after starting trial runs back in October.
Spy Shots Reveal Details
Spy shots of the Model Y Juniper taken in Palo Alto have been captured from a distance. These images suggest that the turn signals are integrated into the light bars of the vehicle. This observation is echoed by some of the clearest photos of the Juniper refresh leaked so far, showing a camouflaged test mule in the UK.
In addition to the integrated turn signals, these images reveal new shapes for the seats and steering wheel that differ from the current Model Y. The “squircle” design of the steering wheel bears a resemblance to the unique yoke design seen in the Cybertruck. It remains unclear if there will be a traditional round steering wheel available as an option.
Features and Upgrades
It seems almost guaranteed that the steering wheel will include turn signal buttons, as Tesla plans to adopt the minimalist, stalkless design from the Model 3 Highland interior, along with adding ambient lighting.
The stitching on the seat headrests also appears to be different, featuring a sharper design compared to the existing Model Y seats. This might align with the rumored more aggressive exterior design inspired by the 2023 Highland facelift. Reports suggest that the Model Y Juniper will be equipped with vented seats similar to those in the Highland variant, which could account for their new shape.
The refresh showcased in the photos is fitted with Tesla’s well-known 20-inch wheels. However, it’s possible that more wheel and tire options could be available when the refresh is officially unveiled later this month. An announcement about the Model Y Juniper facelift is anticipated soon, with specifications likely including a larger battery and more efficient motors that could offer over 400 miles of range on a single charge.
Charging Improvements
Additionally, faster charging for the Model Y Juniper is expected, as Tesla has stated that the advanced 800V powertrain and 48V low-voltage systems from the Cybertruck will be integrated into its upcoming models. This aligns perfectly with the rollout of Tesla’s new 500 kW V4 Superchargers that are set to come online this year.
Source: Link
Tags: electric vehicle facelift, Model Y Juniper, Tesla
January 6, 2025
Tesla Sales Drop as Chinese Electric Cars Surge in Popularity
Tesla moved 1.79 million vehicles to buyers last year, which is a small drop from 1.8 million in the year before. The production numbers also dipped a bit, landing at 1.77 million vehicles. Even the much-anticipated Cybertruck, Tesla’s cutting-edge pick-up, fell short of sales expectations. Alongside the Model S and Model X, the Cybertruck represented less than 5% of overall sales. The Model 3 and Y still reign supreme as Tesla’s top sellers, making up the bulk of their sales.
Electric Vehicle Market Struggles
Tesla’s difficulties are not unique; the entire electric vehicle sector is facing a downturn. Global obstacles like ongoing inflation, increasing interest rates, and persistent supply chain issues are affecting what consumers want. Additionally, shifts in subsidy regulations in various countries are further slowing down electric vehicle sales.
BYD’s Rising Success
In contrast to Tesla’s challenges, BYD is experiencing remarkable growth. The Chinese automaker sold a stunning 4.27 million vehicles in 2024, up from 3 million the prior year. A major part of this achievement is the rising appeal of plug-in hybrids in China, with BYD selling 2,485,378 of these models in 2024 alone, thanks to favorable government subsidies.
Volkswagen’s Troubles
On the flip side, the German automotive giant Volkswagen (VW) faces its own set of problems. VW projects it sold 9 million vehicles in 2024, which is 200,000 units less than in 2023. Besides the troubles affecting the broader electric vehicle market, Volkswagen grapples with high production expenses in Germany, lower productivity rates, and heavy reliance on the Chinese market. In China specifically, VW has seen a sharp decline in sales due to fierce competition from local companies like BYD.
Data Protection Issues
To complicate things further, Volkswagen is also dealing with data protection concerns. A recent security flaw was found at VW’s subsidiary, Cariad, which develops software for VW vehicles. Sensitive location data for about 800,000 VW, Audi, Seat, and Skoda vehicles was left exposed for months.
New Competitor Emerges
Meanwhile, another competitor is emerging in the electric vehicle arena. Xiaomi, known primarily for its smartphones, made its entry into the e-car market in 2024. In its first year, around 130,000 Xiaomi SU7 vehicles were sold. The company plans to ramp up its efforts in 2025, aiming to double its sales numbers.
Source: Link
Tags: BYD, Tesla, Volkswagen
January 1, 2025
Tesla Tests Model Y Juniper Wipers in Heavy Rain with New Features
Tesla might soon unveil the Model Y Juniper facelift, potentially as early as next week. This refreshed model is expected to feature a redesigned side mirror, a front that resembles the Model X with its logo, and a new rear light bar.
New Design Features
The speculations about these updates arose after a recent sighting of the camouflaged Model Y Juniper driving at high speeds on the highway during heavy rain. In addition to the fresh design aspects, the performance of the facelift’s body on the slick road suggests that it may come with a new, more comfortable suspension. This is something current Model Y drivers have been asking for quite some time now.
Wiper Functionality
For the first time, the Model Y Juniper’s wipers were seen in action. However, the focus is not just on how well the wipers clean the windshield at high speeds. Instead, attention is on how the automatic wiper system behaves in autonomous driving mode. Tesla’s wipers have had their share of issues, often working too hard in sunny conditions or failing to adjust to varying rain intensities since they depend solely on the vehicle’s cameras. The wipers on the Model Y Juniper appeared to be cleaning effectively, but we will need to wait until next month, when the refresh is launched from Giga Shanghai, to see how they perform in real-world conditions.
Rear Light Bar Innovation
In a clearer observation of the Model Y Juniper facelift, we can see its new rear light bar in operation. Tesla has made an opening in the camouflage tarp for the midsection of the light bar, which seems to function as a third brake light and extends across the rear. This change hints at a more streamlined and aggressive look, reminiscent of the design approach taken with the Model 3 Highland facelift released last year.
Moreover, a larger 95 kWh battery option is rumored to be part of the package. This, combined with a new 4th-gen Tesla motor, is expected to provide a greater range on a single charge for the Model Y Juniper.
Powertrain Upgrades
Under the hood, Tesla may have also upgraded the powertrain with modern 800V high-voltage and 48V low-voltage systems, which were first seen in the Cybertruck. However, it remains unclear whether the Model Y Juniper will also incorporate the Cybertruck’s second-generation 4680 battery, as concerns about its cost and performance have been raised by CATL, suggesting that Elon Musk may be overly optimistic.
Source: Link
Tags: facelift, Model Y Juniper, Tesla
December 30, 2024
Tesla Launches Portable Megapack Chargers for Holiday Congestion
Tesla has one of the largest public charging networks in the world but is working to make holiday travel simpler for electric vehicle (EV) owners. The company is addressing the issue of crowded public rapid charging stations by introducing the MegapackCharger, a portable charging solution.
What is the MegapackCharger?
MegapackChargers are like Supercharger stations that Tesla can set up quickly in various locations. Each unit features 8 V3 stalls mounted on semi-truck trailers. This design makes them flexible and easy to deploy in areas where there is a high demand for charging. A standout aspect of the MegapackCharger is its built-in batteries, which can hold up to 3 MWh of energy. This amount is sufficient to charge around 75 vehicles at a rate of 250 kW.
Connectivity and Setup
The MegapackChargers utilize SpaceX’s Starlink internet service for connectivity, showcasing the collaboration between the two companies. This connection allows drivers to check the chargers’ availability in real-time on Tesla’s navigation system, similar to how they would with standard Superchargers.
Although Tesla could place these chargers anywhere, they are mainly being located near existing Supercharging stations that are already linked to the power grid. This strategic placement enables the batteries to recharge via a Supercharger cabinet during off-peak hours, like nighttime.
Locations and Efficiency
So far, Tesla has deployed MegapackChargers in states like California, Nevada, and Ohio. These new chargers can provide faster charging speeds compared to the nearby V2 Superchargers, which are limited to only 150 kW.
Source: Link
Tags: MegapackCharger, Supercharger, Tesla