Tesla Patents Electric Fan Car With Four Rear Ducted Fans

Tesla was granted a patent for an "Electric Fan Car" on an unspecified date, detailing a system that utilizes four electric ducted fans integrated into the rear diffuser. This innovative design aims to generate significant downforce, effectively "sucking" the car down to the road surface at any speed. The patent drawings depict a Tesla Model S, a vehicle that Tesla ceased production of in April. This marks Tesla's second patent related to fan car technology within approximately a year, arriving just two weeks prior to the company's scheduled demonstration of its latest Roadster model. The patent, officially titled "Electric Fan Car," was published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and was filed by Tesla Inc. The technology described in the patent could potentially enhance vehicle stability and handling, particularly at high speeds or during aggressive maneuvers. The inclusion of ducted fans in the rear diffuser suggests a sophisticated aerodynamic approach to vehicle dynamics. This development follows Tesla's ongoing efforts to innovate in electric vehicle technology, with a particular focus on performance and efficiency. The company has previously explored advanced aerodynamic solutions in its vehicle designs, including active aerodynamic elements. The timing of this patent, preceding a new Roadster reveal, suggests that such fan-based downforce technology might be considered for future performance-oriented vehicles. The Roadster, when initially announced, was touted as a high-performance electric vehicle, and the integration of advanced aerodynamic systems like those described in the fan car patent could further underscore its performance capabilities. The concept of using fans to generate downforce is not entirely new in automotive engineering, with applications seen in motorsports, but Tesla's patent suggests a novel integration into a production-ready electric vehicle. The patent application details the placement and operation of the ducted fans, emphasizing their role in creating a low-pressure zone beneath the vehicle, thereby increasing grip and stability. The specific performance benefits, such as the exact amount of downforce generated or the impact on braking and cornering, are not detailed in the provided information but are implied by the system's design. The cessation of Model S production in April adds a layer of intrigue, as the patent utilizes this model in its illustrations, potentially indicating that the technology was developed or tested using existing platforms before being considered for future models like the next-generation Roadster. The company's consistent pursuit of patents in areas like advanced propulsion, battery technology, and autonomous driving highlights its commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle engineering. This fan car patent represents another facet of Tesla's multifaceted approach to automotive innovation, aiming to redefine performance and handling characteristics for electric cars.