Tesla unveils new Model Y Launch Series, ‘Juniper is not true’

Manila: Tesla has flipped the script with the release of its updated Model Y —  its superstar electric car — in China and across Asia on January 10. 

The automaker is banking on a sleeker design, fancy upgrades, and a pinch of Cybertruck-inspired flair to outshine local heavyweights BYD and Xiaomi.

Launch Series

The latest Model Y iteration, dubbed as the “Launch Series”, comes with subtle upgrades — 

• A rear screen

• Tailgate that automatically opens when you approach the vehicle

• Invisible speakers that create a minimalist aesthetic (and maximum audio performance)

• Refined interiors with wrap-around interior lighting

• Soft-touch finishes

• Cybertruck-looking headlights, and

• Ventilated seats.

Price bump

Debuting with a 5.4 per cent price bump at 263,500 yuan ($35,900), this “Launch Series” promises an enhanced ride that’s worth every yuan — or peso, for its Philippine fans. 

Delivery in China starts in March, regulatory gods permitting. Its BGC showroom in Manila expects deliveries to begin in April.

Design

Think front-end light bar drama and an equally theatrical tail light.

Inside, the Model Y levels up with season-proof seats (heat or cool?) and backseat passengers scoring their very own touchscreen.

Range 
With a range boost to 719 km for its long-range version, the new Model Y is powering into 2025. 

The rear-wheel drive variant offers 466 kilometers at Php2,369,000 (about $40,536), while the all-wheel-drive sibling clocks in at Php2,689,000 ($46,015).

The new Model Y, earlier speculated as the “Juniper” series, reportedly starts at $31,000 in the US.

“The codename Juniper is not true... We call it as the new Tesla Model Y Launch Series,” a Tesla Manila staff said on Friday.

Tesla vs. rivals

Sure, the Model Y was 2023’s global EV darling, but it hit a sales slump last year, as Chinese EV maker stole the thunder from Elon Musk’s team.

BYD now reigns as China’s top dog, while newcomer Xiaomi, known as a phone maker, dazzled with 130,000 units of its SU7, its first EV model.

Their SUV sequel, YU7, drops this summer, setting the stage for a no-holds-barred clash.

Tesla’s counter? 

A surprise six-seat Model Y due later this year, rumour says. Can Elon’s team light the fuse for a comeback?

The plot is only starting to thicken.