Tesla not only changed how electric cars look, but it also changed how electric cars are viewed. Apart from that, Tesla is constantly improving its technology and system. Nonetheless, is the Tesla AWD system always on?
No, Tesla AWD usually engages at startup, but when the car gains constant speed, it reverts automatically to two-wheels to save on the battery. Regardless, the dual-motor system sends traction to all wheels. Also, this system can selectively send power to either front, rear, or all wheels at any given time.
Besides, Teslas AWD system is more efficient than the traditional AWD systems that lessen efficiency. This is mainly because Tesla engineers designed the motor-control software to choose which motor to use at any given time. Usually, the motor selects the most efficient wheels.
What’s more, the Tesla dual-motor all-wheel-drive system is now standard on all the newest Tesla Model X and Model S variants. Nonetheless, this does not mean that Tesla Model Y and Model 3 do not have dual-motor AWD options. You can check their Performance variants if you want a dual-motor AWD system.
How does Tesla dual-motor AWD work?
The Tesla dual-motor all-wheel-drive system has a pair of motors that are placed in the front and rear of the car. Additionally, the car comes with two different clutches and three gear sets that allow the user to apply either the front, rear, or all wheels at the same time.
Furthermore, the dual-motor system enables the car to speed up more quickly and to stop almost suddenly. What’s more, one of the motors can be utilized to power up the car, while the other can be used for recharging the battery. As a result, the driver can drive longer without having to worry about recharging.
What are the setbacks of owning a Tesla with a dual-motor AWD system?
Despite having many benefits, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive system also comes with various setbacks. For instance, a Tesla with a dual-motor AWD system is costlier than one with a single motor all-wheel-drive system. Another setback is that controlling this software is pretty challenging as it is quite complex.
Where is power directed in normal driving conditions in a Tesla with dual-motor AWD?
In normal driving conditions in a Tesla with dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, even power is sent to both the front and rear wheels. So, it is 50/50. And when you try to pull away faster, then more power will be sent to the rear wheels, which are shorter geared than the front wheels.
After gaining the right speed or if you want to drive within the car’s range, you will have to switch to the front motor, which is calmer and more efficient. Nonetheless, it is vital to apply the right wheels as it helps to reduce tire wear and improve the car’s range.
Besides, the rear motor is normally less efficient but more powerful than the front motor. That’s why it is usually applied in extreme or tricky conditions like snow or on slippery surfaces. Knowing where and when to engage the front, rear, or all wheels on a dual-motor AWD system will make your drive smooth and fun.
Why choose a car with a single motor AWD system?
Teslas with a single motor AWD system are cheaper than those with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. Additionally, these cars are the best for first-time EV buyers, as they are much easier to control than dual-motor AWD cars.
FAQ
Is Tesla’s dual-motor AWD worth it?
It depends on whether you live and your driving habits. If you love speed and performance, the Tesla dual-motor is worth it. Additionally, if you live in an area with horrendous conditions, such as slippery surfaces or snowy roads, then this system is worth it.
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However, if you live in an area with good conditions and don’t love to accelerate very fast, then paying over $6,000 doesn’t make sense. Just go for the single motor or normal Tesla FWD system.
Why is towing a Tesla with an AWD system pretty challenging?
The main reason why towing a Tesla with an AWD system is quite difficult is because the electric motors remain linked to the tires at all times. As a result, the car can only be transported and not towed as both wheels should be off the ground. However, Tesla comes with both “Transport mode” and “Neutral” for towing.
How does the size of a wheel affect the range of a Tesla?
Wheel size is very important as it can reduce or increase the range of your car. Typically, bigger wheels will have a lower range than smaller wheels. For instance, a Tesla Model 3 Performance variant with an 18-inch wheel will cover 301 miles, while the same car with a 20-inch wheel will cover only 262 miles.
So, this means that increasing the wheel size of a Tesla Model 3 Performance variant by just 2-inches will make you lose about 40 miles. This is because as the sidewall becomes thick, little air is disrupted. As a result, the wheel becomes heavier and the speed is somewhat compromised during acceleration.
Can you use non-Tesla wheels on a Tesla?
Yes, you can use non-Tesla wheels on a Tesla. The only problem is that if anything goes wrong with your car, Tesla will have to prove that the aftermarket wheels didn’t cause the problem before they can take care of it. If the wheels are responsible for the issue, then you won’t be covered under the Tesla warranty.
Tesla uses Goodyear Eagle Touring tire as its OEM factory tire. So, if you want to replace your punctured tire, you will have to purchase this tire to avoid voiding the warranty. Besides, these tires are some of the best on the market and are very durable.
Why is it important to use tires with noise reduction technology on electric cars?
This is because electric cars are quiet, but the tire noise issue is a major concern. As a result, Tesla and other BEVs come with sound-deadening foam inside the tires. This foam is normally inserted inside of the tire tread area. However, it makes employing puncture repair patches a headache.
Summary
No, Tesla AWD is not always on. This is because it engages when the car starts or changes speed or when the conditions change. But when things are back to normal, this system returns to a two-wheel drive to save the juice.
