On the first day of its release, Tesla Model Y "Juniper" receives 50,000 orders in China.

【PCauto】On January 10, 2025, Tesla formally unveiled the new Model Y, which has been previously speculated to be named Model Y "Juniper." Remarkably, on its inaugural day of sales, Model Y garnered over 50,000 orders in China, which translates to an average of 100 orders per Tesla store nationwide. Although the previous iteration of Model Y remains available for purchase, the new one has attracted a disproportionately higher volume of orders.

The new Model Y "Juniper" is launched in the Chinese market with two variants: the rear-wheel drive launch edition priced at 263,500 yuan (approximately RM161,875 ) and the long-range all-wheel drive launch edition priced at 303,500 yuan (approximately RM186,449).

In addition to enhancements in exterior design, the driving experience of the new Model Y has been significantly modernized, akin to that of the new Model 3, which removes the conventional gear shifters and turn signal stalks. This alteration has elicited different responses within the market. Some consumers express difficulty in embracing this avant-garde design, asserting that conventional controls are more intuitive and convenient. There are concerns that the omission of these stalks may heighten both the complexity and risks associated with driving. Nevertheless, despite some reservations, a substantial segment of Chinese consumers has opted to place orders for the new Model Y.

For consumers who have already pre-ordered the new Model Y, a waiting period is anticipated before vehicle delivery. According to Tesla's delivery schedule, the commencement of new car deliveries is slated for March, indicating that consumers may have to wait until April or May to take possession of their vehicles.

The substantial order volume for the new Model Y has garnered attention from other Chinese automotive manufacturers. It is noteworthy that the Tesla brand's influence, coupled with the vehicle's advantages in aspects such as driving range and intelligent driving assistance systems, continues to resonate strongly with consumers in China.

Tesla's 2024 sales "report card" reveals that, while global sales have witnessed a year-on-year decline for the first time, Tesla's sales in the Chinese market have exhibited a contrasting trend, with an 8.8% year-on-year growth, culminating in a record high exceeding 657,000 units. This figure accounts for 36.7% of Tesla's total global sales.

The debut of the new Model Y "Juniper," alongside the remarkable achievement of receiving 50,000 orders on its first day, not only underscores Tesla's prowess in product innovation and market promotion but also establishes a foundation for its sales performance in 2025. As competition in the Chinese new energy vehicle market intensifies, it remains to be seen whether Tesla can sustain its leading position in the industry.