Tesla to Begin Mass Production of Refreshed Model Y in China

What improvements can we expect to see in the refreshed Model Y compared to its previous versions?

Tesla is getting ready to start mass production of an updated version of the Model Y electric SUV in Shanghai, China. The company is currently making preparations at its Shanghai plant and could begin production as early as mid-2024.

Tesla is reportedly getting ready to commence mass production of a refreshed version of its popular Model Y electric SUV in Shanghai, China. According to Bloomberg, the company is currently preparing its Shanghai plant for the updated Model Y and aims to start mass production by mid-2024. This updated version of the Model Y is expected to bring more noticeable changes to both its exterior and interior compared to the recent update made for the Chinese market.

At this stage, it’s unclear whether the changes made to the Model Y will be similar to the updates seen in the recently delivered Tesla Model 3 ‘Highland’ electric sedan for Australian customers. The updated Model 3 sedan features a sleeker front design with a simpler lower section and restyled tail lights at the back. Underneath the surface, the refreshed Model 3 comes with revised suspension, including new springs, dampers, and subframe mounting points that are designed to offer a more comfortable ride. Additionally, adjustments have been made to the Michelin tires to provide better ride comfort by incorporating softer sidewalls that also help reduce noise.

In terms of the interior, the new Model 3 boasts a new screen at the front with the same dimensions (15 inches) and processor as before. The steering wheel no longer has column stalks for indicators or cruise control; instead, it features capacitive-touch buttons on the wheel. An ambient lighting strip runs along the base of the windscreen, and passengers can now turn off the air vents on the passenger side. Rear passengers also get their own display screen (8.0 inches) to control media and climate, along with air vents and USB-C ports for convenience.

The first round of the updated Model Y will reportedly be produced at the ‘second phase’ of Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory. Production is expected to be temporarily suspended for about a week during the New Year holiday period to accommodate partial upgrades, according to an undisclosed source. Furthermore, additional adjustments will be made to the production facility in preparation for the mass production of the updated Model Y.

• The refreshed Model Y will have more noticeable changes to its exterior and interior compared to the recent update for the Chinese market.
• It remains uncertain if the changes will be similar to those made to the Model 3 ‘Highland’ electric sedan recently delivered to Australian customers.
• The updated Model 3 boasts a redesigned front, restyled tail lights, revised suspension, and improved Michelin tires for better ride comfort and noise suppression.
• Inside, the new Model 3 features a new screen, capacitive-touch buttons on the steering wheel, ambient lighting, and controls for rear passengers.
• The first batch of the updated Model Y will be produced at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory, with production temporarily suspended for upgrades during the New Year holiday period.

With Tesla’s plans for mass production of the refreshed Model Y in China, car enthusiasts and electric vehicle enthusiasts can look forward to more noticeable changes in both the exterior and interior of the popular electric SUV. As Tesla continues to innovate and improve its models, it remains to be seen if the changes to the Model Y will mirror those made to the recently delivered Model 3 ‘Highland’ electric sedan in Australia. Nonetheless, the updates to the Model 3, including the revamped front design, improved suspension, and upgraded tires, suggest that Tesla is dedicated to enhancing the driving experience for its customers. As the best-selling electric SUV globally and in Australia, the Model Y’s refreshed version is expected to further solidify its position in the market.