Why is the tire pressure of Model 3 set so high?
3 Answers
The tire pressure of Model 3 typically ranges between 2.3 and 2.5. In addition to following the manufacturer's recommended standard tire pressure, various other factors should be considered, such as season, vehicle load, tire pressure environment, and driving conditions. Taking season as an example, in winter, it is advisable to slightly increase the tire pressure by about 0.2 bar based on the standard tire pressure. In summer, the lower limit of the standard tire pressure should be followed. Here are more related details: 1. Load: The load also significantly affects the tire pressure. When the vehicle is empty, the lower limit of the standard tire pressure should be used (the tire pressure indicated on the vehicle's label can serve as a reference for the minimum tire pressure). When fully loaded, the upper limit of the standard tire pressure should be applied (the maximum tire pressure indicated on the tire can serve as a reference for the theoretical maximum tire pressure). 2. Tire pressure standards: Too low tire pressure increases driving resistance, raises fuel consumption, and accelerates tire wear. Too high tire pressure affects comfort. Both excessively high and low tire pressures pose a risk of tire blowout. The standard tire pressure may vary slightly depending on the vehicle model and style. It is necessary to refer to the standard tire pressure chart for the vehicle. The standard tire pressure chart can usually be found in the following places: the vehicle's user manual, the label near the driver's door (B-pillar), the drawer next to the driver's seat, or the fuel tank cap. These locations indicate the standard tire pressure for full load and three passengers.
I've been driving a Tesla Model 3 for a year now, and the tire pressure is indeed significantly higher than most other cars, typically around 43 psi. This is primarily because the Model 3 is an electric vehicle, and the designers have gone to great lengths to improve energy efficiency. Higher tire pressure reduces rolling resistance between the tires and the road, which naturally increases the driving range. For example, I've tested it myself—when the tire pressure is at the recommended level, the energy consumption per 100 kilometers drops by about 10%, which is particularly noticeable during long-distance driving. The higher tire pressure also makes the tires more stable. Due to the Model 3's heavy battery pack and low center of gravity, body roll during turns is reduced, enhancing handling stability. On the other hand, low tire pressure can lead to excessive heat buildup or uneven wear, shortening tire lifespan. While higher tire pressure may feel slightly firmer at first, once you get used to it, it actually saves both hassle and money—just regularly check it using the car's built-in monitoring system. I think this optimization reduces environmental impact and overall enhances driving safety.
From a technical perspective, I believe the Model 3's high tire pressure design addresses the efficiency requirements of electric vehicles. Higher pressure reduces tire deformation and rolling resistance, which is analogous to optimizing energy conversion. Given the substantial and evenly distributed weight of electric vehicles, high tire pressure provides adequate support to prevent sinking or edge wear, while also aiding in heat dissipation to avoid overheating failures. This setup also enhances responsiveness, offering stronger grip during sharp turns. Having analyzed numerous model data, I've observed that even slightly low tire pressure significantly increases energy consumption. Therefore, adhering to the recommended values not only protects the equipment but also reduces operational costs, making it scientifically sound and reasonable.
