Tesla Launches New-Look Model Y in China

Tesla has unveiled a refreshed version of the Model Y targeting the Chinese and other Asia-Pacific markets, the first significant makeover of the SUV since its 2020 debut.

This redesign follows a year marked by Tesla's first annual sales decline since entering the mass market in 2012, with deliveries falling below the 2023 figures.

The updated Model Y is expected to begin deliveries as soon as March in China and neighboring countries. However, it's uncertain when the updated model will reach European and U.S. shores, although similar releases have taken about four months in the past, as seen with the Model 3 update.

Internally codenamed Juniper, the revised Model Y shares many updates with the refreshed Model 3 sedan from 2023, along with elements borrowed from other Tesla projects.

The SUV now features a less rounded and more angular front similar to the Model 3, with a continuous light bar across the front rather than the traditional headlights. This design approach mirrors that of the Cybertruck and the Cybercab prototype. The rear of the vehicle sports a "cross-car lamp," described by Tesla as the "first indirect reflective body panel taillight of its kind," running under a slight hatch protrusion.

Inside, the Model Y mimics the ambient light bar of the new Model 3, encompassing most of the cabin with customizable colors. The vehicle includes powered rear seats, improved suspension, and reduced road noise. Additionally, it is lighter than its predecessor, offering slightly better range, though no drastic range improvements are noted.