How Tesla Plans To Make Model 3 The Most Aerodynamic Car Ever

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Tesla CEO Elon Musk took to Twitter to give more information about the Model 3. He mentioned that they are targeting a drag coefficient of 0.21. This would make the Model 3 the most aerodynamic car if the company hits that target.

Tesla aiming for most aerodynamic mass-produced car

Tesla did the same thing with both the Model X and Model S, but it’s much more important to repeat this with the Model 3.

“The efficiency of having Tesla’s smallest battery pack maintain the promised 200 miles or more range means the Model 3 maintains its practicality and affordability—and that all comes down to aerodynamics,” says Jalopnik.

The automaker is using digital simulation tools supplied by Exa Corporation to design the Model 3, reveals Electrek. These tools let the electric carmaker virtually shape the aerodynamics of the car and also help in the challenge to achieve the target of a 0.21 drag coefficient. Exa’s VP of Ground Transportation Applications, Ales Alajbegovic, hinted at how Tesla is using their PowerFlow simulation software in the efficient design of the Model 3.

“Tesla uses Exa’s PowerFLOW digital simulation software in-house to design its cars. We don’t see the process, but by analyzing the cars that Musk unveiled at the end of March, we can see where Tesla has innovated,” the executive said.

Tesla would not only set a record for making the most aerodynamic mass-produced car if it manages a 0.21 drag coefficient in production, but it will also go a long way in maintaining the daily practicality of the electric car.

Ford planning long-range mass-market EV

On Thursday during the company’s first-quarter earnings conference call, Ford CEO Mark Fields confirmed that the company is working on a long-range mass-market EV.

On being asked if Ford will come up with a car to take on the Chevy Bolt and the Tesla Model 3, he said, “Clearly that’s something we’re developing for.”

Fields said they aim to be “among the leaders or in a leadership position” in the EV market.

According to Automotive News, Ford’s affordable 200-mile-range EV may be called the “Model E.” Though Fields gave no details on the sale date for its electric car, there are reports that the car will go into production at a new plant in Mexico in 2019.

On Thursday, Tesla shares closed down 1.5% at $247.71. Year to date, the stock is up by over 4%, while in the last year, it is up by over 13%.

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