The global electric vehicle (EV) market is heating up again, and this time, Tesla is not slowing down. In what some are calling a “power move,” Tesla’s new 2025 Model Y, nicknamed “Project Juniper,” just racked up a staggering 50,000 bookings within 24 hours after its launch in China.
So, what exactly is making this car ignite the interest of car lovers in the Chinese market? On the other hand, should BYD, the Chinese EV giant, be worried?
The new Model Y is not just a regular facelift. Tesla went all-in with this update, drawing inspiration from the already redesigned Model 3, which resulted in a sleek, sophisticated design that has people in China rushing faster than “Ghanaian youths chasing MoMo giveaways on Twitter.”
Compared to its previous version, the 2025 Model Y is more attractive, fuel-efficient, and affordable for many middle-class Chinese buyers — the very market BYD has been dominating for years.
Here are the trims announced:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): ¥263,500 (approx. $35,900)
- Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD): ¥303,500 (approx. $41,400 )
Tesla hasn’t yet released the performance version, but word on the street is that it’s coming soon.
While the launch happened in China, the impact ripples globally, especially as Ghana and other African countries begin to open up more to EV adoption. Tesla doesn’t officially operate in Ghana yet, but many upper-income earners import their Teslas through Dubai or the US.
This new price drop means we could soon see more Model Ys on Ghanaian roads, especially in places like Airport Residential, Cantonments, and East Legon.
Tesla vs. BYD: A Clash of Titans
BYD has long been the king of China’s EV market, mainly because of its locally produced, affordable electric vehicles. But Tesla is not here to play. At its Gigafactory in Shanghai, Tesla has been cutting down production costs and delivery times, which is helping it undercut BYD’s pricing strategy.
It’s this aggressive pricing and Tesla’s global brand power that has allowed the company to pull off this jaw-dropping 50,000-day order streak.
Just because Tesla is making waves doesn’t mean BYD is out of the race. Remember, what’s driving the current excitement is the new design and features. But the real test comes when consumers start driving the car. Will it be reliable? Will parts be affordable? Will it live up to the hype? BYD still has the home advantage in Chima and may bounce back strong.
