Is your Tesla Model Y uncomfortable? Switch to 18 inches!

Often criticized for its poor damping comfort, the Tesla Model Y accepts 18-inch wheels that are also appreciated in winter.

Recently, we discussed the benefits of smaller diameter wheels on electric cars in terms of range. The energy consumption causes of larger diameter wheels are numerous: stiffness, rotational mass, aerodynamics, footprint, rolling resistance, etc.

But at Tesla, an additional argument tops the list of complaints: damping comfort. The issue does not solely belong to Tesla, but the American manufacturer is not as experienced in suspension tuning as rivals with decades of expertise. Europeans, in particular, are at the forefront (they must be good at something…) on this topic.

Why are Teslas uncomfortable?

It’s a bit of a vicious cycle: because cars are getting bigger and heavier, their design must be adapted with a balance of proportions. The Tesla Model Y is the perfect example: with its XXL size, it would be somewhat ridiculed with small wheels.

Furthermore, the mass of electric vehicles necessitates a firm suspension setup so that the weight of the batteries does not negatively impact handling and doesn’t make passengers feel nauseous with undulations reminiscent of seasickness. An ultimate consequence of this high mass: very high tire pressures as well.

If you visit your Tesla dealer, they will tell you that it’s impossible to reduce the wheel diameter of your Model Y. That’s false! Why? Mainly because the northern European countries, during the winter season, absolutely do not want to ride on tires (often studded) of 19, 20, or 21 inches that are totally uncompromising on slippery surfaces.

They need to provide some flexibility in the tire behavior, so 18 inches is accepted and recommended. Nokian, for example, offers a whole range of studded Tesla tires in 18 inches.

Why is 18 inches the solution?

First and foremost, there are three points to ensure before moving to 18 inches:

• the correct original front and rear widths
• the correct original load and speed indices
• the perfect total development of the 18-inch tire once inflated. This tire circumference must be the same as the original 19 or 20 inches to ensure the speedometer calibration remains accurate. The same applies for range calculations, etc.

For the rest, reducing the rim diameter to 18 inches will require a greater sidewall height. However, the sidewalls of tires act as shock absorbers by absorbing some of the shocks from road irregularities. To simplify, a smaller diameter tire stores much more air, which also allows for lower inflation pressure. It’s the double effect Kiss Cool.

Low-profile tires, often mounted on large rims, have a stiffer structure to better adhere and stabilize the vehicle… on dry roads. But it’s the opposite on wet roads, with a rigidity that accelerates the loss of grip. Moreover, less sporty tires often feature deeper tread patterns, making them less prone to aquaplaning risks. Another issue frequently reported by users of the Tesla Model Y with 19 inches wearing the original Hankook tires with a very mediocre rubber mix.

Additionally, smaller rims, despite having more tire, are very often lighter, which reduces the energy needed for rotation, thus increasing range. The suspension shocks, in terms of bottoming out (bumping phenomenon), are also reduced.

In short, if the discomfort of your Tesla Model Y bothers you, know that this is not inevitable. Simply, the exterior look will be a bit less nice, but honestly, who really cares? And it’s not necessarily true; many wheel manufacturers have jumped into the market.

Finally, there’s no need to try 17 inches; the brake calipers would not fit into such a small wheel…

ALSO READ: What are Tesla’s new “Oases” for charging?