Tesla has officially unveiled the long-awaited new Tesla Model Y in the Chinese market. Codenamed “Juniper” during development, the facelifted model is now listed on Tesla’s Chinese website. Offered in two different versions, deliveries of the new Model Y are expected to begin in March 2025. The starting price of the model has increased by 5.44%.
Pricing and Launch Details
The new Tesla Model Y starts at 263,500 Yuan (approximately $35,940) for the rear-wheel-drive First Edition version. The long-range, all-wheel-drive version is priced at 303,500 Yuan (around $41,390). Compared to the previous model, this represents a $1,850 increase in the base price. These special Launch Series models will be available only until February 28, 2025. Tesla is also offering an additional 2 years or 40,000 kilometers of warranty for this exclusive series.
Design: Sharper and More Aerodynamic
The facelifted Tesla Model Y stands out, particularly with its redesigned front end. The new design, inspired by Cybertruck, gives the vehicle a bolder and more modern appearance. The three-piece, full-width LED light signature reflects a popular design trend among Chinese brands. The bumper features larger vertical air intakes, further enhancing the aerodynamic structure.
While the side profile remains unchanged, the rear features notable updates. Full-width LED taillights and a repositioned rear camera, now placed higher in the center of the taillights, are among the highlights. The license plate has been relocated to the newly designed, sharp-edged diffuser area. Thanks to its updated front design, the new Model Y boasts a reduced drag coefficient of 0.22 Cd, improving its aerodynamic efficiency.
Dimensions and Interior Quality
The dimensions of the new Model Y remain largely the same as its predecessor: 4,797 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, 1,624 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,890 mm. However, the new design has added nearly 5 cm to the total length. Tesla emphasizes that the updated model features higher-quality materials and delivers a quieter driving experience.
Performance and Battery Features
Both versions of the new Tesla Model Y are equipped with a 400V electric architecture. The rear-wheel-drive version comes with a CATL LFP battery offering a capacity of 62.5 kWh. This battery provides a range of up to 593 kilometers under CLTC standards, marking a 39-kilometer improvement over the previous model. Energy consumption has also been reduced to 11.9 kWh/100 km. Powered by a 220 kW electric motor, this version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds.
The long-range version features a 78.4 kWh NMC battery capable of delivering a range of 719 kilometers, making it the longest-range Model Y Tesla has ever produced. This version is powered by two electric motors, generating a total output of 331 kW (450 PS). It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, offering a significant performance boost compared to the previous version (5 seconds).
Conclusion
The new Tesla Model Y brings significant updates in both design and technical features. Enhanced aerodynamic efficiency, improved material quality, and upgraded performance metrics set this model apart. This launch in the Chinese market marks a pivotal step in Tesla’s global strategy. As a new star in the world of electric vehicles, the Model Y is already attracting considerable attention.