Why don't Tesla cars use in-wheel motors?

[Velazquez]

Tesla cars do not use in-wheel motors due to reasons such as high costs, reduced reliability, and motor cooling issues. An in-wheel motor integrates a motor into the car's wheel hub, enabling the wheel hub to have power, transmission, and braking functions, making it an independent power unit. The reasons Tesla cars do not use in-wheel motors include cost issues. The high conversion rate and lightweight four-wheel in-wheel motors remain expensive, making it difficult to achieve mass production for commercial use. Reduced reliability is another factor. Placing a precision motor on the wheel hub requires consideration of long-term intense vertical vibrations and harsh working environments that could lead to failures. Additionally, the wheel hub is a part that is easily damaged in accidents, resulting in significantly higher repair costs. Motor cooling issues also arise. While in-wheel motors reduce the overall vehicle weight, they significantly increase unsprung mass. This not only affects vehicle handling and comfort but also increases braking pressure and motor heating, posing greater challenges for the motor's thermal cooling system.

[DiHarrison]

I've been following electric vehicle technology for years and found that in-wheel motors, which are directly mounted on the wheels, sound quite advanced. However, they increase unsprung mass, putting more burden on the suspension system and affecting handling stability and ride comfort. For example, body sway becomes more noticeable when cornering. Tesla, on the other hand, cleverly uses a central drive unit, integrating the motor into the vehicle body, which centralizes the weight, making the car more balanced and ensuring smoother acceleration. In-wheel motors are exposed to the elements, making them more susceptible to road impacts or moisture erosion, leading to higher failure rates and more complex repairs. Tesla also optimizes its thermal management system—cooling is challenging at the wheel hubs, so coordinated cooling of the battery and motor is more efficient. Most mainstream EVs now follow Tesla's approach, opting for a central layout that balances practicality and safety. Future technological advancements might mature in-wheel motors, but for now, Tesla's decision is based on proven reliability, minimizing owner hassles and ensuring smooth, worry-free daily driving.

[DelReese]

I often deal with car repairs. Hub motors are installed inside the wheels, making repairs particularly troublesome when issues arise. For example, even changing a light bulb requires removing the wheel, which is costly and time-consuming. Tesla's motor features a centralized design, making maintenance simple with affordable parts—you can even fix it yourself if it breaks. From a purchasing perspective, this reduces the overall cost, making electric vehicles more affordable for more people. Hub motors are exposed to harsh environments, prone to water ingress and short circuits in rainy weather, resulting in a shorter lifespan. Tesla's motors are enclosed within the body, offering better dust and water resistance, reducing worries on long trips. Economically, it's more cost-effective. Maintenance records show that hub motor vehicles have more issues, while Tesla avoids this pitfall, prioritizing durability and practicality. Saving hassle and money is the real wisdom.

[OKylie]

As a daily electric vehicle user who has driven several models, I've noticed that cars with hub motors can sometimes feel quite bumpy, especially when driving over potholes, which affects driving comfort. Tesla is different—its powertrain is entirely centered, giving it a low center of gravity for stable cornering, smooth acceleration without strange noises, and even weight distribution that prevents drifting at high speeds. Passengers also mention the comfortable rear seats and unobstructed space design. The extra weight of hub motors can slow down suspension response and may cause slight shaking during acceleration. Tesla prioritizes the overall experience, offering direct handling and more driving fun, eliminating these frictions. Over time, the reliability and everyday convenience become apparent, making it a more considerate choice.