Report: Tesla Model S/X upgrading to more efficient electric motors

If you're considering a Tesla Model S or Model X purchase in the second half of 2019, expect your vehicle to ship with more efficient electric motors. Tesla is apparently planning an upgrade and we have the Model 3 to thank for it.

As Electrek reports, both the Model S and X use AC induction electric motors, which achieve an efficiency of 93 percent. However, for the more recently developed Model 3, Tesla switched to using permanent magnet reluctance motors, which achieve an efficiency of 97 percent. Higher efficiency means more range from the same batteries.

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With that in mind, Tesla is thought to be planning a motor upgrade for both the Model S and X in the second half of 2019. The new motors are codenamed "Raven," and as you'd expect, they switch to using permanent magnetic reluctance. It should result in both models of the electric vehicle enjoying a longer range. The efficiency gain is expected to be even greater in stop-and-go traffic, which is great news for those who drive the busiest routes each day.

Tesla has also started upgrading its superchargers to a new V3 standard. They allows for 50 percent fasting charging, with the Model S and X receiving an over-the-air software update to add support. Combine the V3 superchargers and new, more efficient electric motors, and Tesla is going to head into 2020 with some seriously tempting electric vehicles for other manufacturers to compete with.

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