Tesla Refreshes Model Y In China: Reimagined With Striking Design And Upgrades

Tesla has officially launched a significant refresh of its popular Model Y electric crossover in the Chinese market, marking the first major update to the electric vehicle (EV) since its introduction. The refreshed model, internally codenamed “Juniper,” brings numerous improvements in efficiency, design, and technology.

The most striking visual change appears at the front of the EV model, where Tesla has implemented a distinctive full-width LED light bar reminiscent of the Cybertruck’s design language. This symbolizes a departure from the traditional headlight configuration and eliminates the previous model’s characteristic “duck lip” bump on the hood.

In addition, the rear end also features a redesigned LED light bar that creates an interesting visual effect by reflecting off the trunk, which Tesla calls “integrated diffuse through taillight.” The company has also added the “TESLA” lettering across the trunk, matching the styling of the recently refreshed Model 3.

Performance and efficiency improvements are recognized in the updated Model Y. The Long Range All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) variant now possesses a CLTC-rated range of 719 km (around 446 miles), conveying an improvement of around 20 miles over its predecessor. While these figures are based on China’s more lenient CLTC testing standards, they suggest potential EPA ratings could reach around 350 miles when the vehicle launches in other markets.

Moreover, the acceleration spec in the refreshed Model Y has also improved immensely, with the AWD version now capable of reaching 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.3 seconds, down from 4.9 seconds in the previous model.

A notable technological addition is the new front bumper camera, a feature shared with the Cybertruck but notably absent from the refreshed Model 3. This camera enhances parking capabilities and provides an additional viewpoint for Tesla’s Autopilot system, though its inclusion raises questions about the autonomous driving capabilities of previous models lacking this hardware.

For the interior, Tesla has maintained the circular steering wheel design rather than adopting the “squircle” shape found in the Cybertruck. However, like the updated Model 3, the new Model Y eliminates the traditional steering column stalks, a change that has generated some controversy among Tesla enthusiasts.

Additionally, the interior receives several comfort upgrades, including acoustic glass for reduced cabin noise, ventilated seats, and customizable ambient lighting. A new rear screen for passengers and electric “anti-gravity” rear seats that can be controlled via a trunk-mounted button add to the vehicle’s convenience features.

Tesla has also introduced a new “Glacier Blue” paint option, priced at RMB 8,000 (around $1,090), and updated wheel designs including 19-inch Interactive Storm Wheels and 20-inch Spiral Storm Wheels. A special “Launch Edition” will be available with exclusive badging, puddle lights, and door sills.

Deliveries of the refreshed Model Y are scheduled to begin in March 2025 in China, with pricing for the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) version starting at approximately $36,000, making it a notably affordable option for the world’s best-selling vehicle. However, international markets, particularly the United States (U.S.), may face longer wait times for the updated model, especially given new tariffs on Chinese EVs.

Read More: Tesla’s Record-Setting Q4 Meets A Surprising Annual Sales Dip

As a result, this comprehensive refresh of the Model Y showcases Tesla’s dedication to continuous improvement and innovation in its EV model lineup, while maintaining competitive pricing that could help sustain its position as a leader in the global EV market.

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