Tesla Model Y Deliveries Surge in Australia with 2025 Juniper Update

Tesla‘s Model Y deliveries in Australia hit a record low of 280 units in April 2025, down 76% year-on-year, marking the brand’s weakest month in nearly three years, according to Drive. The updated 2025 Model Y, codenamed Juniper, launched in May, sparking renewed interest with a record week of test drives and near-sold-out Launch Series editions.

Technology Updates

The 2025 Model Y features improved aerodynamics and low-rolling-resistance tires, enhancing efficiency. The Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) model now offers a 290-mile (466 km) range, up 7 miles, while the Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD) reaches 342 miles (551 km), an 11-mile increase. Acceleration improves, with the RWD hitting 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds (from 6.9) and the Long Range AWD in 4.8 seconds (or 4.3 with the Acceleration Boost, included in Launch Series). A larger 15.4-inch touchscreen, up from 15 inches, improves responsiveness, and a new 8-inch rear passenger screen adds entertainment. Unlike the Model 3, the Model Y retains a conventional indicator stalk, responding to driver preferences.

User Benefits

Starting at $39,600 USD ($58,900 AUD) for the RWD and $46,300 USD ($68,900 AUD) for the Long Range AWD, the updated Model Y delivers enhanced comfort with ventilated front seats, refined suspension, and acoustic glass for a quieter cabin. The Launch Series, nearly sold out, bundled premium paint and 20-inch wheels, attracting early buyers. “The long range was a really good value proposition for those in the know, around the acceleration boost that was included with that,” said Tesla Australia Country Director Thom Drew. These upgrades cater to EV owners prioritizing range, performance, and comfort.

Industry Changes

The delivery drop stems from transitioning to the new Model Y and a cooling Australian EV market. The RWD model, historically popular for its affordability and incentive eligibility, dominated prior sales. “Typically, with both of our products, that [RWD focus] seems to be it,” Drew said. However, BYD’s Sealion 7 overtook the Model Y as Australia’s top-selling EV in April, signaling fiercer competition. Tesla’s direct-sales model and Shanghai factory capacity (9,450 units weekly) support a rebound, though public sentiment toward CEO Elon Musk could affect demand, an issue Drew sidestepped.

EVXL’s Take

Tesla’s Model Y refresh is a solid step forward, like upgrading from a good flat white to one with oat milk done right. The Juniper update brings tangible improvements—longer range, faster acceleration, and a comfier ride—that EV owners will appreciate. Drew’s enthusiasm, noting “a record test drive week, last week, in our entire history,” reflects strong interest, but not all test drives convert to orders, so Tesla’s real success hinges on closing those sales. With BYD gaining ground, Tesla must maintain momentum to stay ahead in Australia’s evolving EV landscape.

Photos courtesy of Drive.