2024 Tesla Model Y (Project Juniper): What we know/expect [Update]

Update: ‘Design,’ ‘Interior & Features,’ ‘Specifications’ sections updated.

Tesla plans to present a refresh to the Model Y, the SUV sibling of the Model 3, and begin production of the updated version in 2024, Reuters reported on March 1, 2023. Codenamed ‘Tesla Juniper,’ the electric SUV could go on sale in the U.S. as the 2024 Tesla Model Y.

Here’s our general expectation from the new Tesla SUV. Please note that some information and visuals presented in this article represent the current model year, and we will keep revising this page as new updates surface.

Design

Like the 2024 Tesla Model 3, we expect the 2024 Model Y to feature a mildly updated exterior, with newly designed bumpers and wheels. Like today, in addition to a bigger body, fender flares would immediately differentiate it from the sedan. Our rendering (pictured above), includes a curvy L-shaped cut-out on the sides of the front bumper as a visual cue for the SUV.

Tesla may offer the new Model Y in two fresh colors: Ultra Red and Stealth Gray. These paints would be in addition to a few carried-over options, possibly including Pearl White Multi-Coat, Solid Black, and Deep Blue Metallic.

Interior & Features

Inside, the new Model Y should sport a redesigned dashboard and a swiveling function touchscreen infotainment system, which is unavailable in the current model. Tesla may improve the quality of materials and introduce new steering wheel options with the refresh.

Tesla may employ a new steering wheel inspired by the Semi and Cybertruck in the new Model Y and offer a steering yoke with a steer-by-wire system as an option. The facelifted crossover SUV may feature new, ventilated seats, new RGB ambient lights, a new, 17-speaker sound system with two subwoofers and two amplifiers, and maybe even an 8-inch rear screen. Improved microphones for enhanced phone calls and increased quietness achieved by 360º acoustic glazing could round out the important interior changes.

Tesla discontinued wood trim in the Model 3 with the facelift, and it may do the same in the Model Y. The Model Y’s interior comes in black and black-white color schemes, and includes wood trim in the sportier-looking fully dark option. Wood trim may suit the two-tone color scheme, but it somewhat looks out of place in the all-black cabin, if you ask us. The company may introduce Alcantara or another premium artificial material as a replacement. ABS-bonded foam non-woven fabric is another possibility.

The new Model Y could be available with Full Self Driving (FSD) optionally. Speaking at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai (July 6-8, 2023), Musk said (via Carscoops) he thinks Tesla will achieve FSD later in 2023. He did caution that he was only speculating about this timeline, though. Ordering the new Model Y with the cameras, sensors, and other parts required to enable FSD could allow customers to enjoy the new autonomous driving functions whenever they become available through a software update.

Specifications

According to Tesla Tech Central which cites a reliable source within Tesla, the upcoming 2024 Model Y might bring significant changes to its specifications compared to the current model. The key highlight is a new battery architecture, enabling an impressive range of 400 miles. Notably, there are talks of a potential charging input of 350 kW, achievable with a higher voltage of 800 volts. Furthermore, improvements to the suspension system will enhance the vehicle’s ability to handle street imperfections, while an upgraded powertrain is also expected. These rumors suggest exciting advancements for the 2024 Model Y.

The Model Y is today available in three dual-motor variants – Standard Range AWD, Long Range AWD, and Performance AWD variants. The Standard Range AWD variant just recently became widely available. Reports say this is the variant that has the new structural battery pack with the new 4680 cells.

The Standard Range AWD variant delivers a notably lower EPA-est. range of 279 miles, and it’s slower, too, but not by a big margin, taking 5.0 seconds for a 0-60 mph sprint. On the bright side, it’s just as efficient as the Long Range variant, with an EPA-est. energy consumption rating of 28 kWh/100 mi, and USD 3,000 cheaper, too. The base variant has a top speed of 135 mph.

The Long Range AWD variant can deliver an EPA-est. range of up to 330 miles, accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, and achieve a top speed of 135 mph. The Performance AWD variant’s ratings for the same aspects are 303 miles, 3.5 seconds (with the first foot of rollout subtracted), and 155 mph, respectively. For obvious reasons, it has a higher EPA-est. energy consumption rating – 30 kWh/100 mi.

In the new Model Y line-up, the Standard Range AWD and Long Range AWD variants may have a lower top speed of 125 mph. However, their EPA-est. range figures could be about 9% higher – ~305 miles (Standard Range AWD) and 360 miles (Long Range AWD). We expect these changes based on the revisions in the new Model 3.

Price & Release date

Reuters’ source sharing developments around the new Model Y project, says that Tesla has scheduled the production start of the refresh in October 2024. That’s a projected timeline, though, which could change because of various external factors. If there are no delays, expect customer deliveries to begin in the final weeks of 2024.

As of September 4, 2023, the Model Y retails at USD 47,740 (Standard Range)/USD 50,490 (Long Range)/USD 54,490 (Performance). Tesla levies a USD 1,390 destination fee over the vehicle price. We don’t see Tesla rolling out a major price revision with the facelift. By October 2024, the base price of the Model Y may have reached USD 49,000.

The Model Y was the world’s best-selling car in Q1 2023, with 267,200 deliveries registered during the three-month period. Thus, expect the new Model Y to be in strong demand globally right from launch.

TopElectricSUV says

As America’s top-selling EV, the Tesla Model Y is the driving force of the nation’s transition to electric cars. It’s an all-rounder with high energy efficiency, thrilling performance, great practicality, and innovative technologies, and we think an update can only make it more appealing!

2024 Tesla Model Y FAQs

Featured Image: TopElectricSUV’s rendering of the 2024 Tesla Model Y/Project Juniper