Tesla is pushing the boundaries of its vehicle performance in extreme cold conditions. In a recent video, the company showcased the rigorous testing of the Model Y in the challenging terrains of Norway, just a few kilometers below the Arctic Circle.
Andreas and Johannes, members of Tesla’s peer quality engineering team, embarked on a journey to test the Model Y’s performance in real-world, cold conditions. The duo emphasized the importance of customer expectation testing, stating that it helps predict the actual experiences customers will have while driving in such environments.
Norway is known for its unpredictable weather, often experiencing sudden shifts from calm conditions to gusty 40 km/h crosswinds. This variability in climate poses unique challenges for vehicles and their drivers. A common scenario in the country sees residents traveling from coastal cities to their cabins nestled in the mountains. This journey exposes vehicles to a range of conditions, from the mild sea breeze to the harsh mountainous terrain.
One of the significant challenges faced during these trips is the accumulation of water around the car, particularly around the wipers and wheels. In the colder months, this water can quickly freeze, potentially affecting the vehicle’s performance. With temperatures plummeting to as low as -27°C (-16.6°F), it’s crucial for cars to be equipped to handle these extremes.
To ensure vehicles can withstand these conditions, specialized equipment is employed. This includes humidity, temperature, and pressure sensors that measure the interior conditions of components like taillights, especially during mountain climbs and when passing through tunnels with varying temperatures.
Furthermore, periodic inspections are conducted in workshops to check vital components, such as the wiper washer hoses. These checks are brief but essential, ensuring the car remains exposed to its cold environment for the most accurate testing results.
Check out Tesla’s cool video below:
