Tesla unveils new Model Y Launch Series, ‘Juniper is not true’
Revamped Model Y aims to reclaim throne amid fierce battle with BYD, Xiaomi
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.
