Tesla fans in America are busy ordering thousands of Cybertrucks. But there’s no denying the continued appeal of the Tesla Model Y, which is one of the most popular cars in the world and badly needs a refresh.
Tesla has already updated the Model 3, releasing the so-called Project Highland updates. But the Model Y is way more popular, and Tesla is taking its sweet time modifying this popular electric crossover, which we hear will be ready around the end of next year.
Like with the Model 3, this might all be related to China and direct imports from there. Tesla is already telling people that in 2024, the Model Y won’t be eligible for the $7,500 tax incentive, so they need to take delivery right away, before 2023 ends.
Since the 3 and Y are so closely related, some of the changes planned for the crossover have already been teased. In short, we know that Tesla plans to simplify the front end, make the lights narrow and get rid of the fog lights. The car’s drag coefficient will go down this way, and through several other incremental changes, it will be more efficient.
A more comfortable suspension and better sound insulation will make the new Model Y more comfortable for both the driver and the passengers in the back. By the way, the car has a codename which is Project Juniper, just like the Model 3 was internally known as Project Highland.
The Model Y might lose its tax credit eligibility because it’s imported from China. But leaked documents suggest the new Performance model will still be eligible. By the way, other leaks suggest it will get a Plaid mode or it might be called Plaid instead of Performance.
Tesla will continue to offer two normal versions below the Plaid/Performance, the Standard Range RWD and the Long Range AWD. Tesla is very secretive with its numbers, but people believe a new RWD Model 3 makes about 280 hp which could be lower than the older models. Meanwhile, the Dual Motor AWD is at about 490 hp according to European texts, and that’s actually close to the old Performance. Expect the same numbers from the Y, of course.
Major Model Y changes
The Model Y Plaid will have new brakes, suspension, a never-before-seen wheel design, and bucket seats from what we hear. With about 550-600 hp, it will cause real trouble to German performance cars like the BMW M3.
Some major upgrades are coming to the interior as well. Specifically, Model Y Juniper cars will have ambient lighting, heated and cooled seats, new infotainment, and the latest stereo. They will also move the controls from the stalks to the steering wheel and infotainment. So, for example, reversing will be done via the screen, and indicating a turn will be achieved via steering wheel buttons.
The sad news is that some of the comfort features might be hidden behind a paywall if you buy the basic Model Y. The car will have the hardware installed, but you’ll need a subscription for toasty cheeks on a base car. Tesla might be giving us some new shades of red as well, like Ultra Red, which they took from the Model S and added to Project Highland.
Realistic renderings created by LaMianDesign and Sugar Design:
