08:28Machine-translated from Azerbaijani by AIRead in Azerbaijani
Tesla’s Unusual Patent: Electric Fans Mounted Under Cars
Tesla has patented a new system that uses electric fans to increase downforce in cars while also reducing aerodynamic drag. The patent describes a design consisting of four electric fans installed in the car’s rear diffuser section.
The fans’ primary purpose in the system is not to propel the car forward. They are designed to manage the airflow beneath the car, creating a low-pressure area and, as a result, pressing the car more firmly against the road.
The patent shows an air channel extending from beneath the car to the rear diffuser. As the car moves, air passing underneath it reaches the diffuser. However, turbulence created as the air is directed upward there can reduce aerodynamic efficiency. The electric fans help keep the flow more stable by drawing air through the diffuser.
In the patent document, Tesla describes the technology as a “ducted fan system configured to increase downforce and reduce aerodynamic drag.” The fans are connected to the car’s high-voltage battery and control system. The document also shows an option using a second diffuser to further increase downforce.
Using fans for aerodynamic purposes is not an entirely new approach in the automotive industry. Performance cars such as the GMA T.50 and McMurtry Spéirling also use fan-based systems to manage airflow beneath the car.
However, it is unclear which model Tesla’s patent is intended for. The vehicle illustrations in the document do not directly depict the new Roadster and instead use a body shape that more closely resembles the Model S. Therefore, it is not yet possible to say that the technology was developed for the Roadster.
Nevertheless, the patent’s emergence comes as the unveiling of the new Tesla Roadster draws near. The source reports that the car is scheduled to be unveiled on October 15. Tesla CEO Elon Musk previously said the new Roadster is being targeted to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour (0-96 km/h) in less than 1 second.
At such performance levels, contact between the tires and the road, as well as aerodynamic stability at high speeds, is particularly important. The fan-assisted system could help press the car more firmly against the road, especially at high speeds, and improve stability when cornering. The patent’s stated aim of reducing aerodynamic drag at the same time is also notable in terms of high speed and energy efficiency.
However, obtaining a patent does not necessarily mean that the technology will be used in production cars. It is currently unclear which vehicle Tesla will use the fan system in or whether it will put the system into production at all.