Tesla's New Model Y in China Signals Major Design Overhaul Coming Soon

Tesla's new Model Y has been spotted in China, fueling excitement over a potential major redesign expected next year. Reports indicate the refreshed model may feature updated front and rear designs and possibly a new 7-seat option.

Tesla Model Y Spotted in China Amid Anticipation of Design Refresh

In anticipation of the impending design upgrade, multiple Tesla Model Y automobiles were observed in China wearing camouflage.

Reports earlier this week indicated that Tesla would begin trial production this week, and supply chain data from China indicated that manufacturing would begin in Q1 2025, according to Electrek.

It turns out that Chinese authorities have already seen multiple disguised Tesla Model Ys this week:

The camouflage gives the impression that the new Model Y will have redesigned front and rear ends.

Leaks Suggest Interior and Exterior Overhauls

A leak has stated that the inside will have upgraded design elements seen on the new Model 3, such as an ambient lightbar. Additionally, the spy photo revealed a red light bar that stretched from the taillights and bore the word "Tesla" insignia.

It is also believed that Tesla would unveil a new Model Y with seven seats in China.

The Model Y refresh is expected to follow the Model 3 refresh that was released last year.

Something started happening last year when Reuters reported that Tesla was designing a Model Y facelift for 2024 named Juniper.

Speculation Grows Despite Tesla’s Clarification

Tesla was planning to unveil a revamped Model Y in "mid-2024," according to a subsequent Bloomberg article. However, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, and the company have stated that a new Model Y will not be released "this year," leaving many to believe that the refresh will come in early 2025.