Single Cast Production - What does this mean for repairs?

[rnh415M3]

Sorry if i missed it but does anyone know what the single cast production of the Model Y and the Cybertruck for that matter will mean for repairs? If I damaged a left rear quarter panel does it really mean the whole left side needs to be replaced, repainted, reinstalled? Aside from manufacturing efficincies and costs savings, does the end user see any benefit?

 

[powertoold]

Any structural damage will probably see the car being salvaged

 

[Uncle Paul]

Usually body shop will cut out any damaged parts that cannot be straightened on their hydraulic frame straightener. Weld in a new replacement piece.

Over time, body shops will develop techniques to deal with most any new manufacturing method.

It used to be a very specialized shop to effect aluminum repairs. Now it is common for most shops to handle.

 

[Kmartyn]

I don’t believe they went with the rumored single large casting yet, rather just combined a lot of discrete parts into 4-5 castings. I don’t think anybody really knows yet.

The Cybertruck is an exoskeleton design, very different, and next to nothing known regarding construction beyond that at this point. It sounds like it would be very easy to repair, and rather hard to damage.

Rear quarter panels are currently part of the frame on the M3, and need to be cut out, an new piece welded in. Costly work.

 

[timk225]

Cast parts don't bend, they break. I think this whole casting thing is a very bad idea. Lots of cars in minor wrecks will be totaled as a result.

 

[Watts 4 Me]

Its going to be cheaper for tesla to build. But it will cost the owner a lot to insure. The model 3 is above average in many cases to insure as it is.

 

[Watts_Up]

Its going to be cheaper for tesla to build. But it will cost the owner a lot to insure.
he model 3 is above average in many cases to insure as it is.

The battery costs more than the car when salvaged.

If the body work costs more than the battery value, salvage is simpler.