Tesla Model Y Juniper facelift production to start in Shanghai late November – launch by end-2024?
We’ve been waiting a while for the facelifted Tesla Model Y, codenamed Project Juniper, but recent reports indicate that the revised electric SUV is finally coming soon. According to news sources in China, the car’s start of production is imminent at the Shanghai Gigafactory, where Malaysian Teslas come from.
Car News China quoted a blogger on Weibo as saying that closed-loop production for the facelift was due to kick off today, October 22, with a production volume of 12 per day. Following that revelation, a source familiar with the matter told the publication that mass production was set to start in late November.
It’s still open for conjecture whether the Juniper facelift will be launched this year or the next. Tesla previously issued a memo to dealers saying that the car wouldn’t reach North American showrooms this year, but another Weibo blogger has said it could come earlier than expected. Tesla may well be mirroring the approach it took with the Model 3 “Highland” facelift, launching the car in October 2023 globally but delaying the North American launch to January this year.
No matter when it launches, the facelifted Model Y is set to get far-reaching cosmetic changes. A previous purported spyshot showed the car with a full-width taillight bar and a cleaner tailgate design (meaning that the number plate recess has likely been moved down to the bumper) – mirroring the newer Cybertruck and Robotaxi.
Also expected is a completely redesigned front end and a revamped interior that takes a page from the Model 3 Highland, such as a new three-spoke steering wheel, no indicator and wiper stalks, customisable ambient lighting, a larger 15-inch infotainment touchscreen and an eight-inch rear touchscreen. You can also look forward to several improvements to increase aerodynamic efficiency (which should lead to greater range figures) and reduce noise, vibration and harshness.
Many of these changes have already been quietly implemented into the current 2024 model, including all-round double glazing. Last but not least, you can expect a spicier Performance model than the last, featuring more powerful motors, adaptive dampers, more aggressive styling and bucket seats for the first time. Extra practicality is also purportedly to be had with a new six-seater variant, but that’s only coming in late 2025.
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