New Tesla Model Y enters mass production in Shanghai

Tesla has confirmed the start of mass production for its refreshed Model Y, codenamed "Juniper," at its Shanghai Gigafactory. The event was celebrated by factory employees, with images showing the first mass-produced vehicles rolling off the assembly line on February 17th. Interestingly, the official announcement followed a day later.

The initial models are finished in a new Glacier Blue color and are all-wheel drive variants. These AWD versions feature distinctive rear badges and come with an NMC battery with a capacity of 78.4 kWh. Two electric motors combine to generate a substantial 331 kW (444 hp), enabling the Model Y AWD to accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 4.3 seconds. Tesla claims a range of 447 miles (CLTC) for this model.

In addition to the AWD version, Tesla will also offer a rear-wheel drive Model Y. This variant uses a single 220 kW (295 hp) electric motor powered by a 62.5 kWh LFP battery pack supplied by CATL. The RWD Model Y has a range of up to 368 miles (CLTC).

The Launch Edition of the refreshed Model Y, also unveiled on January 10th, is priced between RMB 253,500 and 303,500 (approximately $35,950 – $41,400). Reports indicate that this edition got an impressive 50,000 orders within a single day of its launch. Originally scheduled for March, Tesla has now moved up deliveries to late February, suggesting that the company has secured the necessary regulatory approvals to begin sales. Tesla applied for the sales license for the refreshed model on January 10th.

Tesla's Shanghai Gigafactory plays a crucial role in the company's global production strategy. As its largest production facility, it accounted for a significant portion of Tesla's sales last year. In 2023, Tesla China's wholesale figures, including exports, reached 916,660 units. That's 52% of Tesla's total global sales of 1.79 million units.

The "old" Tesla Model Y earned its place as the best-selling car in China in 2024, and it was the best-selling car across the world. With the refreshed Model Y now in production, Tesla will hope to hold on to that title.

Via