Tesla Model Y ‘Juniper’ prototypes spotted in China
- There’s been a lot of buzz about the upgraded Tesla Model Y
- It’s rumored to be coming out in 2025
- Now there’s been reported sightings in China
Published on Oct 28, 2024 at 4:25 PM (UTC+4)
by Ben Thompson
Last updated on Oct 29, 2024 at 4:48 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Tom Wood
Tesla has accelerated the development of the Model Y ‘Juniper’ with prototypes being spotted around China.
The company has said that deliveries would begin in early 2025, and these sightings seem to confirm it’s on the way.
Everyone agrees that the Model Y – first launched in 2020 – is due for a refresh.
It’s the most popular electric vehicle of all time, with more than 2 million units sold – but records were made to be broken, weren’t they?
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Why was the prototype seen in China?
This isn’t the first time that one of the prototypes has been spotted.
Several have been spotted throughout the US – such as in San Francisco’s Bay Area – and one was even seen in Spain, as reported by autoevolution.
This most recent sighting was reported in China, where several people took to social media to share images.
In this case, the Model Ys appear to be camouflaged.
This latest development seems to confirm that production on the refreshed cars will take place simultaneously in China, Germany and the US.
However, there seems to be some notable differences between the prototypes.
The US and European models were noted to have their rear license plates in a lower spot on the bumper.
By contrast, the Chinese prototype had it mounted on the tailgate.
Rumors are circulating that China will see two variants of the Model Y, but nothing has been confirmed as of yet.
Its been reported that the Tesla factory in Shanghai began production on October 22, with 15 cars being made a day.
What’s not known is whether or not the company will be deploying their Optimus to work on the factory floor.
What will be different about this version of the Model Y?
Although the Model Y is still a top-tier EV, it’s nearly five years old.
In the fast moving world world of cars, this is a long time so an update is needed to give it that edge over its competitors.
But what will be different about the upcoming update?
Much like its sibling, the Model 3, the new Y will be getting a revised front end, as reported by autocar.
With the headlights and bumpers being reshaped, the car is guaranteed to cut through the air at a faster speed whilst also reducing the wind noise.
There is also going to be a new rear light bar.
The Model 3 smashed 62mph in an astonishing 3.1 seconds and reached a top speed of 163mph.
If this new Model Y gets close to those numbers, it’ll be a huge success.
