Setting Up Aero Caps For R1T & R1S: Potentially Increase Highway Range By 5-8% With Interesting Concept
Creating Aero Caps for R1T & R1S is an interesting concept. One owner recently acquired a Tahoe blue R1T and has put roughly 20k miles on it, mostly highway and offroad. They are considering building aero caps in hopes of getting about a 5-8% highway boost in range.
Another owner has had their R1T for four to five thousand miles and removes the aero covers when local as it makes the wheels look nicer. However, when they go on a road trip and need the miles, they reinstall them back again as it does make a difference in efficiency. Adding or removing the covers takes all but one minute.
A third owner has had their model 3 for over 4 years and 40k miles and have run the same trips with and without the caps, with no difference at all. They use them in the winter to keep snow from getting in their rims and throwing out of balance.
For the original poster (OP), aero caps would be a cool add on for the 20" rims. Changing up the tires on the 20s to a more road oriented tire would likely yield more range than the aero caps. Keeping the suspension in Lowest (on the highway) also makes a difference.
Overall, creating Aero Caps for R1T & R1S is an intriguing concept that could potentially increase highway range by 5-8%. However, changing up tires to a more road oriented tire may be more beneficial than adding aero caps. Additionally, keeping the suspension in Lowest (on the highway) can also help increase range.
In conclusion, creating Aero Caps for R1T & R1S is an interesting concept that could potentially increase highway range. However, it may be more beneficial to change up tires to a more road oriented tire and keep the suspension in Lowest (on the highway). Ultimately, it is up to the owner to decide what works best for them and their vehicle.
How many miles has the OP put on their R1T?
The OP has put roughly 20,000 miles on their R1T, mostly highway and offroad.
What is the OP planning to do to increase range?
The OP is planning to build aero caps in hopes of getting about a 5-8% highway boost in range. They have some CFD and 3D printing knowledge and are interested to see what comes of this.
Do aero caps make a difference for the model 3?
Aero caps do not make a difference for the model 3. The owner has run the same trips with and without the caps, and found no difference at all.
Does adding or removing the aero caps take long?
Adding or removing the aero caps takes only 1 minute.
Will changing up the tires on the 20s make more of a difference than the aero caps?
Changing up the tires on the 20s will make more of a difference than the aero caps. Perelli likely has a similar tire to those on the 21s but made for 20" wheels.
Does keeping the suspension in Lowest (on the highway) make a difference?
Keeping the suspension in Lowest (on the highway) makes the most difference and can help increase range.
Is there a way to make the aero caps more efficient?
Yes, there is a way to make the aero caps more efficient. The OP can use CFD software to simulate the airflow around the vehicle and adjust the shape of the caps accordingly. This will help reduce drag and increase range.
What other modifications can be done to increase range?
Other modifications that can be done to increase range include reducing weight, improving aerodynamics, and optimizing powertrain efficiency.
Are there any other tips for increasing range?
Other tips for increasing range include driving at a steady speed, using cruise control, avoiding sudden acceleration or deceleration, and using regenerative braking. Additionally, keeping tires properly inflated and using the right oil can also help improve range.