Tesla Model Y Juniper Rumored To Start Production In China This January

The Tesla Model Y is gearing up for its most significant update since its 2019 debut. Of course, by “significant,” we mean it’s still largely the same car—just with enough fresh bells and whistles to keep it reigning atop global sales charts. Now, a camouflaged prototype of the updated Model Y was spotted in California, coinciding with reports that production could kick off in China as early as next month.

More: Everything We Know About The Tesla Model Y Juniper

According to the latest information circulating in Chinese media including Sina, production of the facelifted Model Y, codenamed “Juniper”, is set to kick off in January 2025 at Tesla’s Shanghai plant. This aligns with Elon Musk’s earlier comments indicating that the facelifted Model Y wouldn’t launch in 2024. Reports also suggest that Tesla has already built prototypes in Shanghai as part of its preparations for full-scale production, signaling that the company is moving quickly to refine the next iteration of its best-seller.

A New Longer Six-Seater Variant For China

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Tesla is expected to introduce two versions of the updated Model Y: a standard five-seat model, which offers an optional third row for two additional (and very small) passengers, and a longer-wheelbase six-seater variant designed exclusively for the Chinese market, set to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2025. Both versions will come with a range of exterior, interior, and mechanical updates to keep the Model Y fresh and competitive.

Read: Tesla Exec Confirms $30K Model Q For 2025, Deutsche Bank Report Claims

The redesigned bodywork of the Model Y is expected to echo the updates seen on the Model 3 ‘Highland’, featuring slimmer headlights and a more streamlined front bumper. In a recent spy video shared on X by photographer Colin W., the new DRLs (daytime running lights) can be seen glowing through a thick camouflage wrap. The prototype is also equipped with newly styled wheels. While the rear end remains fully covered, earlier spy shots revealed a full-width LED taillight bar with a frosted finish, adding a more modern touch to the design.

Video quality is uploaded at 720p because I don’t have Premium pic.twitter.com/WOQGFztBwN

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— Colin W. (@Y2KColin) December 12, 2024

Bye, Bye Stalks

Inside, the Model Y is expected to ditch its wiper and turn signal stalks, along with the gear shifter, in favor of an even more minimalist design. However, it will gain a redesigned steering wheel, an infotainment display with slimmer bezels, more comfortable seats, multi-color ambient lighting, and an additional touchscreen for rear passengers to control climate settings, just like the Model 3 facelift.

More importantly, the EV will reportedly benefit from better-quality materials inside the cabin and improved NVH, courtesy of chassis and suspension upgrades. These will be likely joined by onboard technology upgrades too.

Battery and powertrain options should be carried over from the outgoing model, although a more powerful Model Y Performance trim sounds plausible, mirroring the specs of the Model 3.

More: New Tesla Models Crippled By AP4 Computer Failures, Breaking Essential Features

In the lead-up to the updated model’s release, Tesla has cut the price of the Model Y in China by an additional ¥10,000 ($1,370), dropping it to its lowest price ever. The move seems to be paying off: between January and November 2024, the Model Y was China’s best-selling vehicle, with 373,000 units sold, accounting for 73% of Tesla’s sales in the region.

Prospective Tesla Model Y buyers in the U.S. face a tough decision: wait for the updated model or buy the current version now to secure the $7,500 federal tax credit, especially with the possibility that the next administration may follow through on its promise to eliminate it.

Illustrations: Thanos Pappas for CarScoops