(Yicai) Jan. 27 -- Tesla's redesigned Model Y, which features additional screens in the rear seats, a camera on the front bumper and other upgrades, was first unveiled in China on Jan. 10, some two weeks before it was released in the US.

Customers have been able to try out the 2025 Model Y at select stores in Shanghai since Jan. 24. Those taking it for a spin will notice minor improvements in appearance, interiors and performance. There have been changes to the headlights, an additional 8-inch control screen has been added to the rear seats and a camera installed on the front bumper.

Tesla’s China team participated in the technical development of the new Model Y, as it did in the recently upgraded Model 3, a member of Tesla's research and development department told Yicai. It is believed that more research outcomes from the Chinese team will be adopted in the global market in the future.

Much of Tesla's R&D efforts in China are focused on improving the vehicle's appearance and interiors, while advancements related to self-driving technologies are still mainly carried out by teams in the US, industry insiders told Yicai.

Over 98 percent of the components used in the cars produced at Tesla’s Shanghai gigafactory are locally sourced, making the price of Tesla EVs in China the lowest in the world, Tesla sales staff said.

Notably, the revamped Model Y focuses more on enhancing passenger comfort, reflecting the Austin-based company's need to cater to consumer experiences while controlling costs amidst fierce competition.

Customers visiting Tesla’s store in the Shanghai Tower were particularly interested in technological improvements, such as battery performance and autonomous driving capabilities.

A female shopper told Yicai that she is still considering her options, and is debating between the Model Y as well as Xiaomi's SU8 and the Seres M8 which is equipped with Huawei Technologies' smart technology.

Deliveries of the new Model Ys are expected to start in late March or early April, Yicai learned from a company insider. Production of the old version will cease once the revamped model hits the market.

The Model Y is Tesla's best-selling car. Last year, over 480,000 units were sold in China, making it the most popular vehicle model in the country, including gasoline-powered autos.

Editor: Kim Taylor