Manufacturing of revamped Model Y commences at Tesla's Shanghai production facility
In a significant move for the electric vehicle market, Tesla has launched the facelifted Model Y in China, marking the latest update to the popular SUV. The changes, primarily focused on design, performance, and interior technology, aim to make the Model Y both faster and more practical.
The exterior design changes are evident, with a new front light bar inspired by the Cybertruck, featuring secondary main lighting units mounted below it. Indicators are integrated into the outer edges of the light bar, giving the Model Y a cleaner and substantially different front look from its previous iteration. At the rear, a dramatic redesign includes a hidden full-width light bar that reflects light from a textured grey trim. The main rear light units are integrated into surrounding black trim and incorporate indicators and brake lights. New 20-inch wheel designs are introduced, with 19-inch aero wheels as an optional upgrade.
Under the hood, the range has been improved to 353 miles (about 568 km), an increase of 22 miles compared to the old Model Y Dual Motor. Peak charging remains at 250 kW. Acceleration and top speed remain unchanged at 0-62 mph in 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 125 mph.
Inside the vehicle, an 8-inch touchscreen has been added for the rear seats, allowing rear passengers to control climate functions and play games.
These updates mark a move toward a more refined and futuristic design language, inspired by Tesla’s Cybertruck aesthetic. The Model Y, which sold 480,309 units in the Chinese domestic market in 2024, contributing 73.10 percent of Tesla's sales in China, is expected to see continued success with these enhancements.
Tesla's Shanghai factory, which also produces the Model 3 sedan, serves as an export hub. The facelifted Model Y is eligible for purchase tax reductions in China and has already completed the full regulatory process. Deliveries of the facelifted Model Y will begin in late February, with the expected delivery date moved up to later this month. The current Launch Series of the facelifted Model Y will be on sale until February 28.
In January, the Model Y sold 25,694 units in China, a decrease of 15.49 percent from the same month a year ago. However, the Model 3 sales in China's domestic market in January were down 59.36 percent from December, with the Model 3 selling 8,009 units. Tesla China sold 63,238 vehicles in January, including 29,535 for export.
The facelifted Model Y's debut in China is a testament to Tesla's commitment to the Chinese market, where the Model Y has been a significant contributor to the company's sales. With these updates, the Model Y is poised to continue its success in the Chinese market and beyond.
- The facelifted Model Y, inspired by Tesla's Cybertruck, is set to redefine the electric vehicle market in China, following its launch.
- The updated Model Y, with enhancements in design, performance, and interior technology, aims to deliver a faster and more practical electric vehicle.
- The exterior design of the Model Y now features a new front light bar, integrating indicators and reflecting a cleaner, distinct front look.
- The rear design of the Model Y has undergone a dramatic change, featuring a hidden full-width light bar and integrated main rear light units.
- The range of the Model Y has improved to 353 miles (about 568 km), with peak charging remaining at 250 kW, offering better efficiency.
- Inside the Model Y, an 8-inch touchscreen has been added for rear passengers, enhancing comfort and entertainment during the journey.
- Tesla's Shanghai factory, which also produces the Model 3 sedan, will facilitate the distribution of the facelifted Model Y, with deliveries scheduled to begin in late February.
- The facelifted Model Y's debut in China signifies Tesla's continued dedication to the Chinese market, where the Model Y has been a major sales contributor.
- As Tesla continues to dominate the electric-vehicle industry and lifestyle, the success of the facelifted Model Y in the Chinese market and beyond is anticipated, positioning Tesla as a leader in the automotive technology sector.