Tesla has patented a new Tesla electric fan system that aims to reduce aerodynamic drag while increasing the downforce of cars. The company's patent application describes a design using four electric fans placed on the rear diffuser of the vehicle.
The main purpose of the fans is not to push the car forward, but to create more downforce by controlling the air flow under the vehicle. This aerodynamic approach is actually similar to the concepts used in cars such as the GMA T.50 and McMurtry Spéirling.
The air duct starts from the bottom of the vehicle and extends towards the rear diffuser. As the car moves, the air flow under the vehicle reaches the diffuser.
The turbulence that occurs as the air rises in the diffuser can cause the aerodynamic effect to decrease. The electric fans in Tesla's patent draw the air under the vehicle through the diffuser, making the flow more regular.
Thus, the aim is to create a low-pressure area under the car and pull the vehicle towards the ground. In the patent, this system is defined as a ducted fan system configured to increase downforce and reduce drag.
The system connects directly to the vehicle's high-voltage battery and control system. The patent also mentions a second diffuser to further increase downforce.
Can the patent be used on the Roadster model?
The car drawings in the patent do not directly show the Roadster model. The images point to a body that looks more like the Tesla Model S.
Therefore, it is not possible at this stage to say that the patent was developed directly for the new sports car. However, the timing seems quite remarkable.
It is stated that Tesla plans to show its new Roadster model on October 15. The performance targets previously announced for the company's long-awaited electric sports car are quite ambitious.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced that he aimed to reduce the Roadster's 0-96 km/h acceleration to under 1 second. For this level of performance, aerodynamic stability becomes as important as the traction that the tires can transfer to the ground.
Advantages of fan-assisted aerodynamic system
Electric cars already have a strong traction advantage thanks to their high weight and ability to precisely manage engine power. The fan-assisted aerodynamic system can help the vehicle grip the ground more tightly and increase cornering performance, especially at high speeds.
The system not only increases downforce but also aims to reduce drag. This can provide advantages in terms of both high speed and efficiency in a performance-oriented car.
Of course, a patent application does not mean that the technology in question will definitely enter mass production. Automobile manufacturers can obtain patents for many technologies they can use in the future.
It is currently unknown in which vehicle, under what conditions or whether Tesla will actually put this system into production. Do you think this fan system of Tesla can really reduce the performance of the new Roadster model to less than 1 second?
