Tesla’s ambitions in China continue to grow, and a new development is emerging straight out of the country. There are spy pictures that report the initial sighting of a refreshed Tesla Model Y L prototype running tests on Chinese roads. It seems to be the start of the major update or enhancement of one of the best-selling models by Tesla.
New Tesla Model Y L China Launch
Although Tesla has not officially announced the development of the “Model Y L”, the car spotted under testing is visibly accompanied by visual changes that might imply that it is a mid-cycle refresh with slight hardware changes, most likely under the same philosophy of Model 3 with the “Highland” variant.
Model YL road test in China @TeslaNewswire @Tesla pic.twitter.com/wTPo7JKINZ
— Veo (@Veowow) July 18, 2025
New Wheels, New Identity: A Tale of Two Rims
One of the most talked-about aspects of the prototype is its unusual wheel setup. The test vehicle was spotted sporting two different 19-inch wheels.
Rear Wheel: 19” Magnetite from the Updated Model S
The rear of the prototype features the distinctive 19” Magnetite wheels, commonly seen on the refreshed Model S. These wheels are known for their sleek, dark finish and aerodynamic styling, suggesting Tesla may be experimenting with design consistency across its lineup.
Front Wheel: Standard 19” Crossflow
It has the more common 19 Crossflow wheel on the front axle, the one used by default in Model Y. Most probably this configuration of two wheels is a test strategy where engineers at Tesla will be able to conduct evaluations, comparisons between the two concepts based on ride quality, air drag and efficiency in energy usage under real life circumstances.
Such a split-wheel configuration is not strange in the automotive industry, where prototyping has to be done. It enables the manufacturers to gather information and make A/B comparisons without having to use special test vehicles.
Design and Body
The exterior of the test vehicle at first sight does not show any drastic changes, which implies that this Model Y L is rather evolutionary than a completely new design. But with a keener eye, one catches a couple of suggestive glimpses:
Covered-up parts suggest some modification of the front and rear bumpers or the internals of the headlights, or even changes in aerodynamics.
Minor changes to the gap between panels and protectors under the body hint that engineering improvements are being developed.
Since the new version of Model 3 Highland is greatly concerned with the ride comfort, noise levels in the cabin, and construction quality, it is not far-fetched to assume that Model Y L might follow the same pattern.
Tesla’s Next Move in a Competitive Market in China
China is still the biggest foreign market of Tesla, as well as a strategic one in the international electric vehicles competition. Increasing fierce rivalry among the local applied competitors, such as BYD, Xiaomi, NIO, and XPeng, the decision of Tesla to revise the Model Y could not be timed more strategically.
Bettering an already well-liked product, Tesla will be able to keep up with the competition and remain competitive among Chinese customers who value technology and new design over other features. Provided that Tesla also deploys similar improvements in the Model Y L as it does in the Highland Model 3, i.e., better suspension, cabin insulation, and infotainment redesign, the car may also solidify the position of Tesla as a leader in the mid-size EV SUV market.
