Lars Moravy, the Vice President of Vehicle Engineering at Tesla Motors, recently opened up about the company’s innovative approach to their vehicle designs, particularly with the Model Y crossover. Crossovers, vehicles that combine the features of SUVs and passenger cars, have grown popular for their ample storage, high functionality, and superior utility. Tesla Motors, a pioneering electric vehicle company, sought to reinvigorate the segment with their unique engineering and design philosophy.
“We wanted to expand on the notion of the crossover when we created the Model Y,” explained Moravy. “Our vehicles have always boasted great range and dynamic, but with the Model Y, we introduced what we call the off-road mode.”
The off-road mode involves intricate torque vectoring, ensuring that even if one wheel is off the ground, the other wheels continue to propel the vehicle, maintaining mobility and control. This, according to Moravy, bestows the Model Y with a capability seldom found in typical sporty crossover SUVs.
Moravy also discussed the company’s distinct ‘first principles’ approach to design and innovation. At Tesla, tradition is not an excuse for complacency. “We don’t get to say, ‘we’ve done that for 50 years, so that’s the way we’re going to do it for the next 50,'” Moravy asserted. “Everything has to be proven from the ground up, with the first principles of physics and mechanics guiding us. Our boundary is what physics allows.”
One of the groundbreaking innovations that emerged from this approach was the development of a unique alloy for the Model Y. The creation of large pieces of aluminum often results in warping during the heat treatment process. To bypass this issue, Tesla invented their alloy, capable of achieving super high levels of strength and durability, eliminating the need for heat treatment. This, in turn, saves energy and keeps the parts straight, negating the necessity to machine the entire component.
“The alloy and the material we developed are incredibly special, enabling us to replace hundreds of parts with just one or two,” shared an enthusiastic Moravy.
On the functionality front, Tesla always aims to enhance their products continually. The Model Y integrates all the functionalities typically found in a crossover. It boasts generous cargo space, both in the rear and the front, and fold-flat seats that provide a wide-open area when needed. Furthermore, it offers towing capabilities, effectively combining all these functionalities without compromising the distinctive Tesla drive experience.
“Whether you enjoy dynamic driving, want to sit up high for a better view, or need ample storage for your family, the Model Y delivers,” Moravy stated. “With every car we build, every new product we make, we strive to push the boundaries, to redefine people’s understanding of what an EV can be and how it can seamlessly fit into their lives.”
At Tesla, the end goal is simple – to engineer vehicles that people love, vehicles that mark the perfect intersection between innovation, functionality, and experience. And judging by the world’s response to the Model Y, it’s clear that Lars Moravy and his team at Tesla Motors are hitting all the right notes.
