Directly from the CEO himself: Tesla won’t be unveiling a refreshed Tesla Model Y in 2024. For those anticipating a Highland Model 3-type update for Tesla’s best-selling crossover, the disappointing news is that the wait will be extended.
Despite persistent rumors about a forthcoming refresh, Elon Musk has clarified that there are no immediate plans to release an updated version of the popular Tesla Model Y electric crossover. However, he emphasized that the existing vehicles continue to receive enhancements through ongoing software updates.
Speculation about a revamped Model Y, known internally as “Juniper,” has been circulating for quite a while. When Tesla introduced the updated Model 3 Highland in Europe last year, it sparked excitement among potential buyers who were eager to see what enhancements Tesla had in store for the crossover. This anticipation grew, especially after witnessing the impressive upgrades to the Model 3 platform and the arrival of the new Model 3 Performance in the U.S. last month.
However, according to Elon Musk, there will be no such update for the Model Y in 2024.
“There will be no Model Y ‘refresh’ this year,” Musk responded to a post on his social media platform, X. He added, “Tesla continually improves its cars, so even a vehicle that is six months newer will have some enhancements.”
Tesla Model Y "Juniper" Updates by Elon musk
Imagining a scenario where buyers overlook a refreshed Model Y seems almost impossible. Given America’s relentless demand for crossovers and Tesla’s EV crossover being named the world’s best-selling car in 2023, the interest is evident. When Tesla started slowing Model Y production in China last month (the same place where the Model 3 Highland refresh began), speculation arose that a refreshed Model Y might be on the horizon.
However, with Musk’s recent confirmation, it’s clear that a refreshed Model Y isn’t coming.
Tesla has recently experienced a sales downturn, as predicted during a quarterly earnings call earlier this year. While many buyers have eagerly purchased Tesla’s newest sedan in the U.S., the Model Y, Tesla’s primary revenue driver, is approaching its fifth anniversary, leading to potential buyer fatigue with the familiar crossover.
Since Tesla primarily enhances its vehicles via over-the-air updates, current owners might opt to keep their existing Model Y rather than upgrade, especially if there are no significant changes in design or hardware features.
Tesla’s current priorities are centered on autonomy, with the upcoming Cybercab set to debut in just two months. The company has faced criticism for prioritizing its autonomous vehicle projects over a $25,000 mass-market EV, codenamed “NV91,” which is rumored to be a more compact version of the Model Y. This model might be introduced next year instead.
It is known that the Cybercab and NV91 are rumored to share a platform. However, considering the modest updates seen in the Model 3 Highland, the Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh is likely to receive similar incremental upgrades. It will probably follow the Model 3 Highland’s path rather than incorporate the cutting-edge technology expected in Tesla’s next-generation vehicles.
