If Tesla's estimates are with the aero covers, then the EPA rating will almost certainly be lower. For Tesla (or any manufacturer) to include something like Aero wheels, they have to certify that at least two thirds of the vehicles they sell will have that option. If more than a third of the long range model 3s they sell have Sport wheels, they have to use the Sport wheel config for EPA certification.
Those are exactly the kind of fender skirts that never go back on once they are taken off.It's been tested as a prototype before ... here is one example from Porsche in the 80's
I think the average is supposed to be 3%. Depending upon circumstances, it could be more--perhaps quite a bit more.
During high winds, I ran low faster than expected in my Model S one day and had to pull off into an RV park. I think during high winds those aero wheels would help a little bit more. That extra 6 miles may not seem like much, but do a few more things to add to that 6 miles and suddenly it's a difference between making it and not in surprise weather. I admit that it doesn't really do a huge amount to the bottom line at 3%. But, it's a case of "every bit counts"; there's lots of things on the car like that, that when added up, make up what Tesla delivers.
I am a "anything's better than black" guy, especially on a white car with white interior (coming soon). But these are pretty blah! Perhaps aftermarket rims are the way to go. (and use these without the covers for winter tires 3 months of the year?)
The point SpiceWare is making is not the wheel size, but the tire size. The S 19" tires are 245/45/19 while the 3 has 235/40/19. The middle number is the sidewall ratio. This makes the 3's tires have a shorter sidewall compared to the S and therefore, potentially firmer ride.
