Easily the most well-liked electric vehicle (EV) in the United States is the Tesla Model Y. The Tesla Model 3 received a fairly significant update earlier this year, bringing with it a completely new look and a few new features. It appears that the Model Y may soon receive the same treatment. Code-named “Juniper,” the updated Model Y appears to be under test at the moment, as evidenced by the recent sighting of a disguised Model Y in California.
Are you curious about what the new Tesla Model Y might get when the update is formally announced? Here’s what we currently know, based on rumors and information from Tesla itself.
Expected design
Although we initially did not think Tesla would make many design changes to the Model Y, recent leaks indicate that there may be more changes than we initially anticipated. A brand-new light bar that spans the back of the car is visible in a recently leaked image; this is a completely unique design feature not seen on other Tesla models. The image was stolen from a since-deleted Reddit post by user Abomb1997.
It is unlikely that other design elements will alter significantly. Most of the changes to the Model Y are anticipated to come after those made to the new Model 3.
Notably, the Model Y is anticipated to feature the same slanted, slimmer headlights as well as slightly redesigned front and rear bumpers. The Tesla emblem on the back of the vehicle is also anticipated to be replaced with spelled-out Tesla letters; however, the letters may extend along the light bar as opposed to just the bumper.
The Model 3’s aesthetic adjustments were well received and contributed to the vehicle’s somewhat sportier and sleeker appearance.
We also anticipate some modifications to the Model Y’s interior. An infotainment screen for the rear-seat passengers was added to the Model 3, which is arguably the largest interior modification. It will probably be added to the Model Y as well, giving backseat users access to apps for Netflix and music controls in addition to controlling the climate. Tesla also controversially replaced the turn-signal stalk behind the steering wheel with buttons on the steering wheel itself for the Model 3 refresh.
Additional interior modifications included more supportive seats and new accent lighting. We’re expecting the same change to come to the Model Y.
Features
Perhaps, or at least with some effort, the Tesla Model Y will also become smarter. Tesla updated the Model 3 with the predictive shifting technology from the Model S, and the Model Y is probably next. In essence, this technology seeks to forecast the driver’s preference for driving forward or in reverse when they get in the car and shut the door. With an on-screen gear selector or a physical gear selector next to the hazard lights, drivers can override the vehicle’s prediction.
In addition to this predictive technology, the new Model Y is expected to have improved audio with an additional subwoofer for better bass response and ventilated seating.
A comparable assortment of Model Y variants, including a performance, long range, and standard range version, is also anticipated.
Rumored price
The Tesla Model Y’s affordability—at least when compared to other electric vehicles—is one of the factors contributing to its popularity. Although Tesla did raise the price of the Model 3 slightly when it released the Highland update, it is likely that the updated model will cost about the same as the previous generation.
The Tesla Model Y started at $44,990 at the time of writing, and we hope the update keeps it under $45,000.
Conclusions
The most well-liked EV will receive significant improvements with the Tesla Model Y refresh. Some of these will cause controversy because not everyone likes the more understated appearance that comes with doing away with the turn signal stalks. Still, all things considered, they ought to result in an improved Model Y in the end.
It remains to be seen when the new Model Y will be released. After the release of the Model 3 refresh, we always anticipated that Tesla would update the Model Y as well. Tesla is testing a revised Model Y, but that does not mean it will be released anytime soon. By year’s end, hopefully, the new Model Y will be available for purchase. And when it is released, we are hoping it will be available in all markets where Tesla sells the Model Y.
by DigitalTrends
