Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla is purportedly gearing up for a potential refresh of its Model Y, with reports suggesting that the update may materialize in the coming months. The speculation arises as Tesla plans a temporary shutdown at its Gigafactory Shanghai.
While Tesla introduced the refreshed Model 3 in Asia, the Pacific region, and Europe last summer, the updated version of the Model Y has yet to make its debut in North America. Despite this, rumors have circulated about Tesla’s intentions to refresh the Model Y, a vehicle closely linked to the Model 3.
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According to a recent report by Bloomberg, sources indicate that Tesla is in the preliminary stages of preparing the refreshed Model Y for production in China. Mass production could potentially commence by mid-2024 at Gigafactory Shanghai, as per undisclosed individuals familiar with the matter.
The report suggests that Tesla is currently engaged in preparatory activities for the updated Model Y, and the initial production batch might coincide with a temporary shutdown and upgrade of Tesla’s Shanghai facility during the New Year holiday. The specifics regarding whether this refers to the upcoming week-long holiday or the Chinese Lunar New Year in February remain unclear.
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The refresh is anticipated to include more noticeable changes both externally and internally compared to the Model Y update introduced in China in October. While the October update brought new ambient lighting and performance upgrades, the forthcoming changes are expected to be more substantial, possibly aligning with the previously rumored project codenamed “Juniper.”
Tesla has not officially confirmed details regarding the Model Y refresh, and the company has not provided specific timelines for the potential production and release of an updated version. As with any developments in the automotive industry, the situation may evolve, and official announcements from Tesla are awaited.
