Tesla is poised to initiate limited production testing of its newly revamped Model Y “Juniper” at its Shanghai factory on October 22, according to a Chinese automotive blogger’s report.
Tesla unveiled its refreshed Model 3 Highland guise last August, delivering a significantly more substantial update than initially expected.
The all-new headlining features have brought a revamped front-end design, enhanced efficiency, and a significantly quieter interior experience. However, a plethora of interior improvements has taken place, offset by one notable drawback: the elimination of steering column stalks.
Since then, speculation has been rife about the imminent arrival of Mannequin Y’s long-awaited refresh. While the current Mannequin Y lags behind its predecessor, the refreshed Mannequin 3, it’s reasonable to assume that many potential buyers may be holding off on purchasing the vehicle until a refresh is announced for the Mannequin Y.
Tesla appears to sense an acute imperative to supplant the Model Y, its top-selling vehicle globally and domestically alike. The assumption is that an influx of new inventory will arrive soon, leading people to delay making purchasing decisions.
Despite Tesla’s assertion that a Model Y refresh isn’t imminent “this year”, the year is rapidly drawing to a close, with numerous hints suggesting an update may be just around the corner throughout 2022.
Recently, we’ve witnessed a camouflaged prototype, its rugged “highland-like” front end unmistakable, accompanied by uncloaked footage of portions of the vehicle.
Trial production is set to commence this week at Tesla’s Shanghai gigafactory, according to reports from a Chinese automotive blogger.
Initially circulated by胖虎Shawn, a prominent Chinese automotive blogger on Weibo, the rumour gained traction.
Manufacturing is expected to get underway slowly, with an initial output of just 12 vehicles per day, as production personnel are strictly regulated from producing the surprise upgraded model without advance notice. Given the typical end-of-quarter sales surge at Tesla, it’s unlikely their new automotive model will debut before year-end.
Additional findings align with previous supply chain research indicating that the product refresh may become available as early as Q1 2025.
The company’s decision to produce the automotive model in Shanghai first may imply that its global rollout will prioritize other regions before North America, potentially delaying its availability in the region. In a repeat of the Mannequin 3’s pattern, the refreshed model arrived in European markets four months ahead of its American debut. If accurate, we may be poised to sustain a prolonged presence in this area.
While the fine print on the refresh remains unclear, it’s reasonable to assume that many updates from the Model 3 will be applicable to the Model Y.
The existing entrance finish in spy photos seems to have been carried over, which could yield similar performance enhancements by optimizing its aerodynamics. As acoustic glass usage increases, a noticeably quieter interior emerges, with many inside improvements seeming to seamlessly translate. Given the limited availability of Model Y variants without steering column stalk deletion, it’s crucial to act promptly if seeking such a model; consider utilizing our referral link for this purpose.
