Rhinoplasty for Tesla's S

[aerohead]

Both Steve Saleen and Rinspeed are offering modified Teslas.They both have sealed off the upper cooling inlet.
Saleen claims "improved aiflow."

[kach22i]

I thought it was always sealed off?

Tesla Model S Trumps Mercedes-Benz CLA In Terms Of Aerodynamics [Video] - autoevolution

As you might've guessed from the title of this article, the 2012 model year Tesla Model S P85 was the best performer out of the five cars tested. Surprisingly, wind tunnel engineers found out that the 0.24 Cd claimed by the Palo Alto-based manufacturer is correct.

Read more: Tesla Model S Trumps Mercedes-Benz CLA In Terms Of Aerodynamics [Video] - autoevolution

[NeilBlanchard]

The newest version of the Model S has Tesla's own revised nose:



And yes, the original "grill" was sealed off.

[aerohead]

Remind me to clean my glasses!

[California98Civic]

Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard

The newest version of the Model S has Tesla's own revised nose ...

And how is the revised nose an improvement aerodynamically? I ask because the old nose probably had a lower stagnation point. I thought lower stagnation points (within reason) were good for drag reduction. This new nose will send more air flow around the sides into the wheel wells, no? Isn't that "bad"?

[aerohead]

Originally Posted by California98Civic

And how is the revised nose an improvement aerodynamically? I ask because the old nose probably had a lower stagnation point. I thought lower stagnation points (within reason) were good for drag reduction. This new nose will send more air flow around the sides into the wheel wells, no? Isn't that "bad"?

Some wind tunnel data would sure be helpful.
Saleen's mods included the rocker panels,and rear spoiler?
He isn't specific about what did what.
When I see Teslas,I usually lay beside them and study their bellies.I should have spent a little time on the nose.

[NeilBlanchard]

I am not sure there is a difference aerodynamically. The new Model S looks close to the Model 3 which is (apparently) lower drag. The graphics of the new now are similar to the Model X, making a new family look.

New Model S:


Older Model S:


Model 3:


The hood on the Model 3 is a fair bit shorter, than the Model S.

[paconassa]

Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard

I am not sure there is a difference aerodynamically. The new Model S looks close to the Model 3 which is (apparently) lower drag. The graphics of the new now are similar to the Model X, making a new family look.

The hood on the Model 3 is a fair bit shorter, than the Model S.

Differences I see between Model S's:
- Concave nose (before convex). Reminds me of the EV1
- Bumper splitters in front of the wheels
- Air curtain (everyone is doing it nowadays)

[gumby79]

Are the turbine blade shaped wheels provided in a left and right? Or is tesla like ford and sending there cars out withall left wheels?
---
I noticed the model s has more pitch (steeper angle of attack)and 8 blades, and the model 3 has lucky 13 blades with smaller openings and less pitch
---
The direction of rotation indicate the wheel is sucking air from the curb side,in turn putting more air under the car.
It would be neat to see the difference in flow spun clock and counterclockwise..
I got to see a model S at the drag strip turning 12.5-12.7 @105-108mph on the 1/4 mile competing for the title fastest street legal car in Montana (406). I didn't get to talk to the owner but it may have been stock . Sounded like a angry vacuum...
model S 12.7sec run @over100mph

[NeilBlanchard]

One of the Model 3's has flat wheels:



Stock Model S wheels appear to NOT be mirrored - they "scoop" air on the right side of the car, and are the correct (lower drag) orientation on the left side.