In the initial quarter of 2023, the Model Y soared to become the world's bestselling car, boasting an impressive 26,400 units sold. This marked a remarkable 69% surge compared to the previous year. This success forms the foundation for Tesla's ongoing commitment to advancing the Model Y lineup, commencing with an upgraded version tailored for the Chinese market by late 2023 and the introduction of the Model Y Juniper project in 2024.
Here's why the Model Y 2024 has the industry buzzing:
- Panasonic's 4680 Cells: A Game-Changer for Range!
The first thing to note about the 2024 Tesla Model Y is the impressive powertrain advancement. Tesla has made significant strides in battery technology, and the new Model Y is expected to benefit from those developments. The new Panasonic's 4680 battery cells pursued by Tesla are designed to provide higher energy density, range, and power.
According to Tesla Tech Central which cites a reliable source within Tesla, the upcoming 2024 Model Y might bring significant changes to its specifications compared to the current model. The key highlight is a new battery architecture, enabling an impressive range of 400 miles. Notably, there are talks of a potential charging input of 350 kW, achievable with a higher voltage of 800 volts. Furthermore, improvements to the suspension system will enhance the vehicle’s ability to handle street imperfections, while an upgraded powertrain is also expected. These rumors suggest exciting advancements for the 2024 Model Y.
- Exterior Elegance: Inspired by the 2023 Model 3!
Motor1.com reports that the 2024 Tesla Model Y Project Juniper is poised for substantial updates, particularly at the front, featuring streamlined light clusters and a new LED Matrix light signature. The revised bumper, designed for improving aerodynamic efficiency, is geared towards maximizing range and minimizing noise, drawing parallels to similar changes in the Model 3 Highland, which achieved a reduction in drag coefficient. The design of the new Model Y is strongly influenced by Tesla's overarching design philosophy - minimalistic yet futuristic. It maintains the sleek, aerodynamic profile that Tesla vehicles are known for, promoting efficiency and performance.
- HW5 Integration: A Step Closer to Full Autonomy!
The 2023 World Artificial Intelligence Conference saw Elon Musk discussing Tesla's advancements in Full Self-Driving (FSD). The aim is to provide a fully autonomous driving experience. As Hardware 4 (HW4) extends to all Tesla models, the company is already in progress with its next-generation hardware, Hardware 5 (HW5).
Reported by the Korean Economics Daily, Tesla has cooperated with Samsung to manufacture a new self-driving chip, utilizing a 4-nanometer node for Tesla's Hardware 5. It's worth noting that Samsung has been a previous supplier of full self-driving chips for Tesla's electric vehicles, including the Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y. The 2024 Model Y is likely to be the first Tesla vehicle with Hardware 5, enabling full self-driving capabilities supported by Tesla Vision and the custom AI chip, Dojo. This includes semi-autonomous driving, automatic lane changes, overtaking, and parking, contributing to safer and more reliable autonomous vehicles.
In December of 2023, Tesla unveiled a version of the Model Y exclusively for the Chinese market, as announced on Tesla's official WeChat account. Contrary to expectations, this release is not the awaited Project Juniper. Alongside modifications like RGB ambient lights, a textured textile material for the dashboard trim, and new 19-inch Gemini Wheels, it's confirmed that this version is equipped with Hardware 4(HW4), not the anticipated Hardware 5 (HW5).
- Interior Innovations and Acoustic Bliss!
The interior of the 2024 Model Y is set to undergo a transformation similar to the exterior updates, following the design cues seen in the revamped Model 3. Unlike the larger Model X Crossover with its intricate Falcon Wing doors, the new Model Y opts for simplicity, featuring a button-free interior centered around a spacious infotainment display on an uncluttered dashboard. The cabin is further enhanced by a heavily tinted all-glass roof, creating an open and airy atmosphere. An article on Forbes titled "Updated Tesla Model Y Coming: What to Expect from Juniper" highlights that the new Model Y will introduce acoustic glass, offering a serene driving experience while safeguarding against glare, heat, and UV rays.
Tesla may employ a new steering wheel inspired by the Semi and Cybertruck in the new Model Y and offer a steering yoke with a steer-by-wire system as an option. The facelifted crossover SUV may feature new, ventilated seats, new RGB ambient lights, a new, 17-speaker sound system with two subwoofers and two amplifiers, and maybe even an 8-inch rear screen. Improved microphones for enhanced phone calls and increased quietness achieved by 360º acoustic glazing could round out the important interior changes.
Tesla discontinued wood trim in the Model 3 with the facelift, and it may do the same in the Model Y. The Model Y’s interior comes in black and black-white color schemes and includes wood trim in the sportier-looking fully dark option. Wood trim may suit the two-tone color scheme, but it somewhat looks out of place in the all-black cabin. The company may introduce Alcantara or another premium artificial material as a replacement. ABS-bonded foam non-woven fabric is another possibility.
- Bioweapon Defense Mode Arrives in 2024 Model Y Juniper!
Beyond aesthetic updates, Tesla places a strong emphasis on comfort within the cabin, drawing inspiration from the Cybertruck. The Model Y 2024 features an advanced air filtration system with Bioweapon Defense Mode, originally developed for the Model X. This system creates a positive pressure environment, effectively shielding the cabin from harmful pollutants and allergens. According to Tesla's ordering website, the Cybertruck includes a built-in hospital-grade HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, providing protection against 99.97% of dust pollen mold bacteria.
Bioweapon Defense Mode is not just a fancy name; it is based on hospital-grade air filtration systems that can protect against various air pollutants. It works by drawing external air through the HPA filter and another activated carbon filter, which remove harmful particles and contaminants. It also creates a positive pressure environment inside the cabin, which prevents external air from entering. This mode is so effective that Tesla has tested it in extreme conditions, such as a smoke-filled chamber, where it outperformed a BMW X3 by a huge margin. This mode is not only a safety feature but also a health benefit, as it ensures a cleaner and fresher environment.
Price & Release date
According to a source cited by Reuters, Tesla is planning to initiate production of the updated Model Y in October 2024. However, this schedule is tentative and subject to change due to a variety of external factors. Should there be no setbacks, consumers can anticipate the commencement of deliveries in the late weeks of 2024.
On December 27, 2023, Bloomberg reported that, based on information from its sources, the production of the new Model Y in China could start as early as the middle of 2024 (May to August). Tesla owns a wholly-owned factory in Shanghai, China, where it produces both the Model 3 and Model Y. This facility became the first in the world to manufacture the updated Model 3 in 2023, and it would not be surprising if it were also to produce the updated Model Y in 2024. The updated Model Y is expected to feature significant changes to both its exterior and interior, according to Bloomberg's sources.
As of December 27, 2023, the retail prices of the Model Y are $43,990 (Standard), $48,990 (Long Range), and $52,490 (Performance). Tesla adds a $1,390 destination charge and a $250 order fee on top of the vehicle's price. A major price adjustment is not anticipated with the update. By mid-2024, the base price of the Model Y may exceed $45,000.
In its Q3 2023 financial report, Tesla highlighted the affordability of the Model Y, showcasing some of its lowest base prices including national and state subsidies in various states. Colorado offers the lowest effective MSRP for the Model at $31,490, followed by Illinois and New Jersey with a net MSRP of $32,490. Massachusetts is in third place with an MSRP of $32,990. These prices do not include the aforementioned $1,390 destination charge and $250 order fee.
Considering the various subsidies it qualifies for, the Tesla Model Y is among the most affordable electric SUVs in the U.S. market. Image Source: Tesla
Leading the Electric SUV Evolution
In conclusion, the 2024 Tesla Model Y (Project Juniper), is more than just a new model. It's a significant leap forward in the evolution of electric SUVs. The combination of extended mileage, advanced autonomous features, and a potentially game-changing power ecosystem, sets the stage for a dramatic shift in the way we perceive electric mobility.
As we move towards a future where electric vehicles are the norm, the 2024 Tesla Model Y is leading the charge. If Tesla can deliver on its promises, the Model Y could very well become the benchmark against which all future electric SUVs are measured.
As America’s top-selling EV, the Tesla Model Y is the driving force of the nation’s transition to electric cars. Get ready to step into the future of sustainable transportation with the 2024 Tesla Model Y Juniper!
