Tesla unveiled the new Model Y in China and Australia. Here’s what you need to know.
New front and rear headlights, increased range, and other improvements.
Tesla has unveiled its highly anticipated refresh of the Model Y, known as "Juniper," which is already available in several Asian countries, including China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and South Korea. It can also be purchased in Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines. Although there has not been an official announcement from Tesla or its CEO, Elon Musk, specifications and images of this new model have already been revealed.
The Model Y "Juniper" marks the first significant refresh of this popular electric vehicle since its launch in 2019. This name has been used as a codename, as on Tesla's official website it is still referred to simply as the Tesla Model Y. However, Tesla has introduced a "Launch Series" labeling for the currently available model, suggesting that it is a limited launch version in the production process.
In terms of exterior design, the modifications are notable, although the shape and size remain similar. Extremely thin headlights connected by a light strip have been incorporated at the front, while the rear features redesigned lights inspired by the Model 3, connected by a red light bar. Other updates include a new front bumper with additional vents and a front camera located in the bumper. While changes have been made, from a distance it still appears to be the same vehicle, albeit with a more aggressive look.
Buyers will be able to choose from different wheel options depending on the region. For example, in China, the 19-inch "Interactive Storm" wheels and the 20-inch "Spiral Storm" wheels are offered, while in Australia, only the 20-inch "Helix 2.0" wheels are available. As for colors, there are five options including the new "Glacier Blue," which replaces "Deep Blue Metallic."
The interior of the Model Y also shows some simplifications, with color options limited to black or a black-and-white combination. The model is only offered with five seats, leaving the option for additional seating up in the air, which is expected to be implemented in the future. Notable interior features include a standard steering wheel, a large central display, ambient lighting, and electric rear seats.
Regarding the powertrain, the new Model Y is offered in two versions: Rear-Wheel Drive and Long Range All-Wheel Drive, with the performance version missing. The Rear-Wheel Drive version has a range of 466 km and achieves acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The Long Range version offers a range of 551 km and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.
Additionally, improvements have been made to the suspension, tires, and noise levels, including a 22% reduction in road noise. On the other hand, deliveries of the Model Y "Juniper" will begin on different dates depending on the region, with deliveries in China scheduled for March and in Australia starting in May. However, a price increase is anticipated, with the new model starting at AUD 68,770, representing a 12% increase compared to the previous model.
Availability in the United States and Europe has not yet been officially announced, but it is expected to take a few more months to reach these regions.