A new Tesla prototype, rumored to be the upcoming Model Y Juniper refresh, has leaked from the factory.
After the Model 3 refresh launched last year, there have been many rumors about a Model Y refresh to follow.
It started last year with a Reuters report that claimed Tesla was planning a Model Y refresh called Juniper to come out in 2024.
Later, a Bloomberg report added that Tesla planned to release a Model Y refresh in “mid-2024”.
Tesla has shut does rumor down. Tesla and CEO Elon Musk have stated that Tesla doesn’t plan to refresh the Model Y “this year.” It’s important to note that both Tesla and Musk specifically mentioned “this year” when trying to shut down rumors of a new Model Y.
It led many to think that a refresh is coming, but for early next year.
Sure enough, we have started to spot camouflaged Model Y prototypes around California in the last month.
Now, a leak claiming to be direct from a factory claims to show pictures of the new Model Y (via Reddit):
Both pictures appear to be taken with a cover partially lifted off the vehicle.
The first image shows the rear with what appears to be a new illuminated ‘Tesla’ brand badge. With the Model 3 refresh, Tesla went with a spelt out ‘Tesla’ rather than the ‘T’ logo in the back, but having it illuminated or in a light would be new in the Tesla lineup.
The second picture is from inside the vehicle showing the ambient lighting in the door, which is a feature that was also introduced with the Model 3 refresh, but it has yet to make it to Model Y.
Electrek’s Take
Top comment by Damon Ekstrom
My daily drive consists of quite a few roundabouts, and the thought of tackling those turns while trying to engage turn signals on an upside down steering wheel doesn't sound all that enticing.
I like what I see as far as everything else goes, but no stalk is definitely a game changer, and not necessarily in a good way.
So far, based on this leak the Model Y refresh appears to aim to bring it closer to new Model 3.
However, it will be interesting to see if Tesla continues in this direction. For example, the stalk-less steering wheel has been one of the most controversial changes to the Model 3.
Will Tesla be willing to put that in its most popular model, Model Y?
Also, what other changes are you expecting or wanting for the Model Y refresh? Let us know in the comment section below.
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