The Tesla Model Y Juniper SR, which had seen a dip in its soaring sales due to the controversy surrounding Elon Musk’s highly publicized political stance, was nevertheless met with great enthusiasm in Turkey. We take a closer look at the model that sold out within the first six minutes of its release.
The Tesla craze, which has gripped the world for nearly a decade, reached a new peak in Turkey in late April 2025. According to Turkey’s tax regulations for electric vehicles, models that fall within the 10% special consumption tax bracket enjoy a notable advantage over those taxed at higher rates—significantly influencing consumer preference. Tesla’s newly revamped model, renamed Juniper, entered this favorable tax category and made a dramatic entrance into the market.
FIRST STOCK SOLD OUT IN 6 MINUTES
The Tesla Model Y Juniper SR, listed at 1.4 million TL before taxes and offered at 1.9 million TL with taxes included, was made available for pre-order on April 25, 2025. The first batch sold out within just six minutes on Tesla’s official website. While initial expectations were that the model would be available only in white, it now comes in blue, red, black, and gray. The Stealth Grey variant also stands out as a more budget-friendly option.
SALES MOMENTUM SLOWING
Despite the refresh, Tesla’s best-selling model is now experiencing slower sales compared to the strong momentum of previous years. Several factors are behind this shift. Elon Musk, Tesla’s owner, has recently taken on a political stance that appears to conflict with the views of a portion of the brand’s fanbase. Additionally, the phase-out of electric vehicle incentives in many European countries has had a noticeable impact. When these and similar elements come into play, the surge in Tesla orders—especially in Europe—has settled into a more stable rhythm. This shift seems to be working in favor of Turkish consumers looking to buy a Tesla, as Turkey has become a valuable outlet for helping to reduce European overstock caused by excess production.
THE BEST OFFER IN THE 2 MILLION TL PRICE RANGE
When looking at the C and D segment SUV models within Turkey’s passenger car market, prices typically exceed 2 million TL. Electric vehicles that benefit from the 10% tax advantage can be offered below this threshold, while internal combustion engine vehicles (gasoline, hybrid, diesel) are placed in one or two higher tax brackets, weakening their competitiveness. With their lower operating and consumption costs, electric SUVs are steadily drawing more consumer interest.
TESLA MODEL Y JUNIPER SR OPTIONS
In addition to its rich set of standard features, the revamped Tesla Model Y offers a variety of personalization options. These include a tow bar, Full Self-Driving Capability, and Enhanced Autopilot. When all optional packages are selected, the total price of the Tesla Model Y Juniper SR reaches 2.9 million TL.
FEATURES OF THE FACELIFTED TESLA MODEL Y SR
Now facelifted and rebranded as “Juniper,” the Tesla Model Y comes with improved aerodynamics and a new 62.5 kWh LFP battery produced by CATL, offering a range of up to 500 kilometers. In the Turkish market, the vehicle’s power is limited to 159 kW instead of the original 220 kW, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 201 km/h. For more details on the Tesla Model Y Juniper’s features, you can read our previous article: Tesla Model Y Juniper: Ushering in a New Era.
