As Tesla is gearing up for the production launch of the refreshed Model Y, new information surfaces about the so-called Project Juniper. The upcoming Model Y lineup will include a China-specific model for the first time, featuring a longer wheelbase. New information shows that the three-row model will be offered in seven- and six-seat configurations.
A refresh to Tesla’s best-selling model is long overdue after the Model 3 was updated in 2023. The Model Y has been born old, with the design and most technical details of the Model 3, launched three years earlier. This hasn’t prevented it from becoming the best-selling car in the world in 2023. However, the Model Y showed its wrinkles even more visibly after Tesla’s resounding success with the Model 3 Highland.
The EV maker delayed the Model Y refresh as events earlier this year prompted Elon Musk to change the company strategy. Instead of the new models in the pipeline, Musk wanted to accelerate autonomous driving efforts. Some projects have been scrapped, while others were delayed to make room for the robotaxi launch, which is now expected on October 10.
However, new reports from China show that Tesla is not standing still, and a redesigned Model Y might start production soon. The market launch of the refreshed Model Y will be in the first quarter of 2025, with most of the design and features introduced with the Model 3 Highland. However, it appears that Tesla is also preparing a China-specific model for the first time. This will arrive later next year with an extended wheelbase, a very popular feature with Chinese customers.
At the end of August, we found out that the long-wheelbase model would feature three rows and would be able to accommodate up to seven passengers. Besides offering more space for third-row passengers, the Model Y LWB is also expected to introduce more features tailored to the Chinese market. Whether these features would be introduced on the Model Y produced in the US and Europe is unclear.
A new report offers more details about the China-specific Model Y. According to Reuters, which cites company insiders, the three-row Model Y will also be available with six seats in addition to the seven-seat variant. This means that Tesla will offer a more luxurious cabin for the Model Y sold in China to counter the pressure from rivals like Nio and Zeekr. Chinese carmakers have recently launched at least four Model Y competitors with roomier interiors.
Tesla currently sells a three-row Model Y in the US, although the space for the rear seats is too cramped to make it popular in China. The long-wheelbase model is set to change that, with Tesla optimistic that it will contribute to a significant sales increase. Sources consulted by Reuters claim Tesla told suppliers to prepare for a double-digit increase in Model Y output next year.
