Model Y Bigger wheels - Less range?

[Pete_Nikola]

Currently looking to buy the Model Y in UK. Have seen some discussion that the bigger 20" wheels give less range the the standard 19" ones.
Indeed the Tesla site configurator for Model Ys shows a range of 351 for the 19" and 331 for the 20".

I can understand that overall wheel and tyre size would make a difference but the smaller profile tyres on the 20" equate to the same overall size as that on the 19".

According to the Model Y owners manual:
19" Wheels come with 255/45 R19
20" Wheels come with 255/40 R20

Using a tyre size calculator they both equate to a 28" overall diameter, a 10" with and both do 720 Revs per mile.

So do the different wheels actually make any difference to range and if so why?

Many thanks.

 

[robbieduncan]

The smaller wheels come with aero covers that provide a significant drag advantage, especially at speed.

 

[Pete_Nikola]

As simple as that.
Thanks.

 

[Jason71]

The aero covers are probably the biggest factor but Traditionally the different sizes of wheels on Teslas come with different brands of tyre. The different rolling resistance of different tyres can make a significant difference to the energy efficiency of a car. Not saying that is a factor here but it could be.

 

[UkNorthampton]

Smaller metal wheel, more air to absorb small bumps, less metal which is heavier (minor). On any kind of car, low profiles will be less efficient, but not always shown due to arcane rules (different regs in different markets though). No one seemed to care before EVs and range FUD

 

[MrT3]

like for like the larger the wheel the heavier it is. Unsprung rotational weight makes a big difference when accelerating and decelerating.

 

[Pete_Nikola]

All very good points. Thank you.

Does anyone have experience of changing the wheels and seeing an actual difference I wonder?

 

[ZenRockGarden]

It's all about the aero. Smaller wheels are more drag-efficient. the end

 

[WannabeOwner]

Back in the day with MS models the larger diameter wheels seems to be a magnet for getting "bent" on potholes etc.

Is that still the case with M3 / MY larger wheels? If so might be something to take into consideration

 

[ZenRockGarden]

Back in the day with MS models the larger diameter wheels seems to be a magnet for getting "bent" on potholes etc.

Is that still the case with M3 / MY larger wheels? If so might be something to take into consideration

Curb rash is the main disease for 3/Y wheels due to the aero-oriented minimal sidewall protrusion. They're strong enough to not get bent easily but oh lord the scuffing is terrible