Tesla Model Y Rumored to Undergo Major Redesign: "Juniper" Spy Shots Surface

Tesla Model Y Rumored to Undergo Major Redesign: "Juniper" Spy Shots SurfaceOn July 9th, a Tesla Model Y prototype, believed to be called "Juniper," was spotted in California, sparking speculation about a potential major redesign for the popular electric SUV.An image circulating on Reddit shows a black Model Y with heavily camouflaged front and rear bumpers

Tesla Model Y Rumored to Undergo Major Redesign: "Juniper" Spy Shots Surface

On July 9th, a Tesla Model Y prototype, believed to be called "Juniper," was spotted in California, sparking speculation about a potential major redesign for the popular electric SUV.

An image circulating on Reddit shows a black Model Y with heavily camouflaged front and rear bumpers. Notably, the vehicle is equipped with a front-facing camera, suggesting it will utilize camera-based parking assist. This move aligns with Tesla's decision to eliminate ultrasonic sensors from its vehicles several years ago.

Last September, the refreshed Tesla Model 3 debuted in Europe, followed by its US rollout earlier this year. The update included redesigned front and rear bumpers, sharper headlights, revised taillights, and a "TESLA" nameplate replacing the traditional logo.

The refreshed Model 3's interior also saw significant enhancements, including active ambient lighting in the instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, a rear entertainment screen, and the removal of traditional steering stalks.

It's worth mentioning that this shift has negatively impacted Tesla's performance on JD Power's recent quality reports.

As the world's best-selling electric vehicle, the Tesla Model Y is the last of the company's lineup to still feature traditional steering stalks and gear selectors. While it remains unconfirmed if the spotted "Juniper" Model Y will also ditch these elements, as seen in the latest Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck, it's a distinct possibility.

Given that the Model 3 and Model Y share many components, design changes often mirror each other. For instance, Tesla previously replaced chrome trim with matte black and introduced wireless phone charging in the Model 3, which the Model Y subsequently adopted. Therefore, the Model Y removing steering stalks aligns with this pattern.

The emergence of "Juniper" strongly suggests that Tesla is actively working on a Model Y refresh. While official confirmation is still pending, this redesign is expected to bring comprehensive exterior and interior upgrades, further enhancing the Model Y's competitive edge in the market.