Electric Motor Current Draw in Tesla Cars: Fully Loaded Conditions

Understanding the current draw of electric motors in Tesla cars when fully loaded is a crucial aspect for both enthusiasts and professionals. The amount of current drawn can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the specific model, driving conditions, and vehicle load.

Model-Specific Amp Draw

The Tesla Model S and Model X can draw around 300 to 400 amps under heavy acceleration or when fully loaded. Similarly, the Model 3 and Model Y typically draw slightly less, around 200 to 300 amps in similar conditions. However, it's essential to note that these numbers can fluctuate based on factors such as battery state of charge, temperature, and driving habits.

Rough Estimates and Driving Conditions

For a more personalized estimate, one Tesla owner suggested that a fully loaded vehicle, driving at freeway speeds, might draw around 50 amps under conditions with a 400 to 460-volt battery. This estimate takes into account the vehicle's weight, load, wind resistance, road slope, and acceleration/deceleration.

Another owner noted that for a 320kW motor, with a 400-volt battery, the current draw would be roughly 800 amps. This example highlights the complexity of the relationship between motor power and current draw, influenced by various driving conditions.

The Motor Controller’s Role

Understanding the motor's current draw isn't just about the motor itself; it's also about the controller. Motor controllers provide the appropriate ampere output based on the desired result and current driving conditions. These controllers use sensor feedback and other real-time data to ensure the motor performs optimally. As one Tesla expert explained, the motor does not “draw” a specific amount of current but rather receives the necessary power based on the output required.

Rough Test Example

A rough example can help visualize the current draw. Using a Model 3 with a 75kWh battery, cruising at 125 km/h would drain the battery in 4 hours. This equates to a consumption rate of 20kWh per hour. Given that the battery operates at 420 volts, the current draw would be approximately 50 amps during that 4-hour stretch. For more aggressive driving, such as flooring the accelerator, the current draw could temporarily spike to 100 amps.

Based on these calculations, the wires leading to the motor would need to be of a gauge appropriate for such high current demands. A gauge 4 wire, or even thicker, would be necessary to handle the maximum current draw.

Conclusion

In summary, the current draw of electric motors in Tesla cars can vary widely depending on the model, driving conditions, and vehicle load. While there is no definitive answer, rough estimates and detailed calculations can offer valuable insights into this complex relationship. Understanding these factors is crucial for both maintaining and optimizing the performance of Tesla vehicles.