Tesla has been granted a patent for a new Tesla electric fan system that aims to increase downforce while reducing aerodynamic drag. The company’s patent application describes a design using four electric fans placed in the rear diffuser of the vehicle.

The fans’ primary purpose is not to propel the car forward, but to control the airflow under the vehicle to generate more downforce. This aerodynamic approach is actually similar to concepts used in cars such as the GMA T.50 and McMurtry Spéirling.

The air duct, starting from the underside of the vehicle, extends to the rear diffuser. As the car moves, the airflow under the vehicle reaches the diffuser.

The turbulence created as the air rises in the diffuser can cause a decrease in aerodynamic effect. Tesla’s patented electric fans draw air from under the vehicle through a diffuser, making the airflow more even.

This aims to create a low-pressure zone under the car and pull it towards the underside. The patent describes this system as a ducted fan system structured to increase downforce and reduce drag.

The system connects directly to the vehicle’s high-voltage battery and control system. Additionally, the patent mentions a second diffuser to further increase downforce.

Could the patent be used on the Roadster model?

The car drawings in the patent do not directly show the Roadster model. The images suggest a body more reminiscent of the Tesla Model S.

Therefore, it is not possible to say at this stage that the patent is directly developed for the new sports car. However, the timing seems quite intriguing.

Tesla is reportedly planning to unveil its new Roadster model on October 15th. The company’s previously announced performance targets for the long-awaited electric sports car are quite ambitious.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk stated that the Roadster aims to accelerate from 0-96 km/h in under 1 second. For this level of performance, both the traction the tires can transmit to the ground and aerodynamic stability become crucial.

Advantages of Fan-Assisted Aerodynamics

Electric cars already have a strong traction advantage thanks to their ability to precisely manage high loads and engine power. Fan-assisted aerodynamics can help the vehicle grip the ground more firmly, especially at high speeds, and improve cornering performance.

The system not only increases downforce but also aims to reduce drag. This situation could provide an advantage in terms of both high speed and efficiency in a performance-oriented car.

Of course, a patent application does not necessarily mean that the technology in question will go into mass production. Car manufacturers can obtain patents for many technologies they may use in the future.

It is currently unknown in which vehicle Tesla will use this system, under what conditions, or whether it will actually put it into production. Do you think Tesla’s fan system could really reduce the performance of the new Roadster model to under 1 second?