A new Tesla prototype, believed to be the upcoming Model Y Juniper refresh, has been leaked from the factory. Following the release of the Model 3 refresh last year, there have been numerous rumors about a potential refresh for the Model Y.

Given the significant similarities between the first-generation Model 3 and Model Y, many in the EV community speculated that the rumored "Juniper" update might involve incorporating the reengineered Model 3's upgrades into the Model Y.

However, the leaked photos shared on the r/TeslaMotors subreddit suggest some potential differences between the reengineered Model 3 and the possible Model Y update. One image shows what appears to be a red light bar with the word "Tesla" on the rear hatch of the supposed Model Y "Juniper" prototype, a feature not present on the reengineered Model 3 sedan. Another leaked image of the Model Y "Juniper" prototype's interior suggests that the vehicle's cabin will closely resemble that of the reengineered Model 3.

Despite the excitement around these leaked images, CEO Elon Musk has insisted that there is no "refresh" planned for the all-electric crossover this year. In a post on X, Musk emphasized that "Tesla continuously improves its cars, so even a car that is 6 months newer will be a little better," amidst sightings of wrapped Model Y units in the wild.

The Model Y has been a hugely successful vehicle, becoming the world's best-selling car by volume last year. If an update is released and well-received by consumers, the Model Y could continue to be one of the world's best-selling vehicles, electric or otherwise.