Is this Tesla’s secret component for substantial range?
Heat pump
Almost every Tesla today has a heat pump as standard. This is a critical component to provide sufficient range, especially in lower temperatures. In the Tesla heat pump video, we get a better idea of the Heat Pump that Tesla developed for the Model Y, but later implemented on the Model 3, Model S and Model X as well.
Making maximum use of heat
Lars Moravy, Tesla Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, explains in the video that this component basically functions as a reverse air conditioning system. The heat pump extracts excess heat from the powertrain to maximize Supercharging charging speeds and driving range in cold weather.
How does a heat pump work?
In Tesla’s with a heat pump, heat from the battery and drive units can also be used to heat the interior. This can save energy on the road, as the interior is already at the desired temperature before departure. But this heat pump technology for Tesla is not unique, as other manufacturers are also using it.
Is Tesla’s heat pump actually unique?
So what makes Tesla’s heat pump unique? Simple: Tesla’s design has several innovations, such as a “super manifold” and the “octo-valve. These components help increase the efficiency and integration of the heat pump system. In really cold weather – where other heat pumps fall short – Tesla’s system can generate its own heat to keep the interior warm.
Less complex
Another priority for Tesla in designing this important EV component was to reduce complexity. For example, the engineers needed a new configuration for the coolant loop. They combined two valves into a single valve during the development process. Moreover, the use of the super manifold allowed Tesla to significantly reduce the number of components.
All this has made Tesla’s heat pump easier and more cost-effective to produce. Less can also break down.