Tesla is launching a redesigned Model Y in China with a 450-mile range and new features

US automaker Tesla has launched its redesigned Model Y “Juniper” in China with a longer range, new design, better interior and quieter driving experience. With the latest reveal, Telsa has given its most popular electric car, first introduced in 2019, a major facelift.

Tesla’s new Model Y comes in two configurations: rear-wheel drive and long-range all-wheel drive. The rear-wheel drive version starts at just under $36,000, providing an affordable option for the popular vehicle.

Square front end inspired by Cybercab

The redesigned vehicle is available now on Tesla’s website in China and other Asia Pacific markets. Delivery is scheduled for March. There is currently no official announcement as to when the model will launch in the US and Europe.

The new Model Y features a more angular front end that gives it a modern look, similar to the Cybercab, Tesla’s autonomous vehicle design. It includes renewed features such as a front camera, new wheels and refined suspension. The redesign aims to improve efficiency and make better use of every kilowatt hour, resulting in a range of around 450 miles per charge. Meanwhile, the updated suspension, wheels and tires also contribute to a smoother and quieter ride.

Tesla says the new design offers a wider field of view for automatically assisted driving and advanced Smart Summon. The automaker also highlighted an updated wheel and tire package, claiming it improves handling and grip.

The new Model Y features a silver-plated sunroof and 16 speakers. A notable update is the addition of a steering column-mounted turn signal stalk, which was not present in the previous model.

Another notable feature of the Tesla Model Y is its trunk, which has a capacity of 2,130 liters with the rear seats folded down, around 100 liters more than the previous model. The new Juniper also features Tesla’s latest AI4-assisted driving hardware, with the full self-driving system (FSD) expected to be available in China later this year.

The launch comes after Tesla lost the top spot

The Tesla Model Y was the best-selling car in China and globally in 2023, but slipped to second place in the first 11 months of 2024, with the BYD Qin Plus sedan taking the top spot. According to China EV DataTracker, Tesla sold 418,428 units in China from January to November last year.

Electrics has reported on the striking similarity between Xpeng’s P7 and Tesla’s Model Y, which is particularly interesting considering that Xpeng itself was originally inspired by Tesla.

Henry Xia, who founded Xpeng in 2014, openly admitted that Tesla’s decision to open source its patents influenced his approach. Xpeng was reportedly the first company to take advantage of Tesla’s offer to use its patents for free.

In addition, Xpeng chief designer Rafik Ferrag also pointed out the similarity to an Instagram post in which he said that Tesla was “paying homage” to Xpeng’s design with the new redesign. Xpeng saw a 34% increase in vehicle deliveries in 2024, while Tesla’s deliveries fell 1%. The G7 is also expected to become one of Tesla’s biggest competitors to the Model Y in China, its most important market.