Tesla engines: Overview of all models

Anyone who observes Elon Musk managing multiple companies simultaneously, being directly involved in many processes, finding time for a Twitter acquisition, and of course, juggling a private life with numerous children, might wonder how Musk does it all. What drives this man who has already achieved everything and is practically swimming in money?

Well, this question has been discussed often enough. Therefore, we want to turn to a different topic. We don't want to know what motivates Elon Musk, but what powers his vehicles. Much is written about features, about AccesoriesWhile batteries and charging technology receive comparatively little attention, Tesla motors get relatively little. So let's get started!

Tesla Motor Functionality

Tesla's motor arsenal includes an asynchronous motor (ASM) and a synchronous motor (PSM). In the ASM, the stator (the stationary part of the motor) induces a magnetic field in the rotor (the rotating part of the motor). The rotating magnetic fields of the rotor and stator are asynchronous, hence the name.

The PSM has a permanent magnet in its rotor, so a rotor magnetic field is already present and does not need to be induced. In this case, both fields run synchronously, which is where the motor gets its name. Tesla combines the PSM, in a way, with the principle of a reluctance motor, which is based on magnetic resistance – but that's not relevant here.

Of course, each Tesla motor design has its own advantages and disadvantages. The PSM, for example, delivers more power at the same weight, is quieter, and more efficient. However, it is expensive to manufacture and uses rare earth elements in its permanent magnet. Furthermore, the PSM immediately becomes a generator when no current is flowing through it. This means it cannot simply run without resistance but is always recuperating energy. This can necessitate complex clutch systems.

The ASM, on the other hand, doesn't require rare earth elements and can run without resistance when no current is flowing through it. It's also cheaper to manufacture. However, its efficiency is lower, and it's also louder than the PSM.

Advantages and disadvantages of asynchronous motors and synchronous motors at a glance:

Asynchronous motor (ASM):

1. It does not require rare earth elements.
2. It can run without resistance when no current is flowing through it.
3. Cheaper to manufacture.

Synchronous motor (PSM):

1. Delivers more power at the same weight.
2. It is quieter in operation.
3. Increased efficiency.
4. It immediately becomes a generator when no current is flowing through it (potential advantage through recuperation).
5. Tesla combines PSM with the principle of a reluctance motor (potentially offering further advantages, although not elaborated upon in this text).

Notes:

• PSM uses rare earth elements, which makes it more expensive to manufacture.
• PSM always recuperates energy when it is not carrying current, which can necessitate complicated clutch systems.
• ASM has a lower efficiency than PSM and is louder in operation.

How many motors does a Tesla have?

Depending on the model, Tesla installs between one and three electric motors per vehicle. This applies to the Model 3 and Model Y. comes In the standard configuration, only one motor is used on the rear axle; this is a PSM (Porsche Stability Module). The Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y motors in the all-wheel-drive "Long Range" and "Performance" models are a mixed pair, with a PSM on the rear axle and an ASM (Automatic Stability Module) at the front.

The opposite is true for the Model S and X.Until April 2019, both models rolled off the assembly line with two ASMs each; since then, one ASM has been located at the rear and one PSM at the front. This mixed use of motors allows the advantages of both designs to be utilized. For example, under light loads, only the efficient PSM can be operated, while the ASM runs without resistance and can be engaged as needed.

The Plaid versions of the Model S and X each use three motors: two at the rear and one at the front. The special feature: in the Plaid motors, the rotor is wrapped in carbon fibers to allow for particularly high rotational speeds. This principle is unique and difficult to implement because the carbon fibers must be wound with extreme precision, but it delivers a tremendous amount of power. an unthinkable acceleration.

What do you think about the different types of motors used in Teslas? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Source of featured image: Austin Schmid via Unsplash