How Much Snow Can Teslas Handle? (All Models Checked)

Already this year, almost 300,000 Teslas have been purchased in the United States, contributing to the global total of 908,000 sales. This means that there are now approximately 300,000 new Tesla owners in the United States.

With winter here, you may be curious about Teslas performance in the snow and how new or experienced Tesla drivers can stay safer on the road.

Here Is How Much Snow A Tesla Can Handle:

Teslas deliver excellent performance in the snow as a result of their traction control systems. This is owing to the fact that several Tesla models are equipped with All-Wheel Drive (AWD). Regenerative braking can cause the car to lose traction, so the driver must modify their driving techniques.

Which Tesla Is Best For Snow Driving?

When it comes to driving in the snow, having a car with a high ground clearance is vital since you do not want to become trapped in the snow. This can be avoided by having a vehicle with decent ground clearance.

Because of the snow, you are going to need a vehicle that has all-wheel drive, also known as AWD. This will allow the vehicle to have better traction.

Tesla Model X

The Tesla Model X is the model in the Tesla lineup that excels in traction and control when driving in snowy weather more than any other model in the lineup.

This is because it features an all-wheel-drive system and has a high ground clearance of 8 inches, both of which contribute to a safe winter driving experience.

The estimated distance that you can travel is 351 miles. However, the Model X will set you back by $112,590 and you would still need to purchase winter tires.

Tesla Model Y Long Range

One of this model’s most notable qualities is the ground clearance of 6.5 inches. It is also ideal for lengthy road trips, as it has an exceptionally long range of 330 miles between charges.

The convenience of having additional cargo room makes it possible to store tools and tire chains, both of which are items that could be useful during a snowstorm.

Despite having a price tag of $58,190 (before secondary purchase of tires) the Model Y an the alternative to the Model X that offers better value for money.

Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 hides its batteries beneath the floor in a position that is low to the ground. This is quite helpful when driving in the snow since it distributes weight evenly to all four wheels and increases stability in the middle of the vehicle.

Additionally, the Model 3 comes standard with enhanced traction control, which makes it less likely that the driver will lose control of the vehicle.

The Model 3 is equipped with rear-wheel drive as standard, giving drivers the ability to safely navigate any treacherous scenario. It’s possible to opt for all-wheel drive.

At a price of $40,390, this is also the cheapest Tesla that can be purchased brand new.

You will, however, have to make do with a range of 272 miles until the Model 3 Long Range becomes available in 2023.

How Does Cold Weather Affect Tesla’s Performance?

Due to the consistently lower temperatures that characterize the winter season, it is only natural for there to be a greater overall demand of energy during this time of year.

Each variant comes equipped with a set of cold-weather driving technologies that, in addition to extending the battery’s life, are designed to make the vehicle more fuel-efficient when it is being driven.

These features are standard on every model that is currently available.

If you’re planning a trip when there is a strong chance of snow, take a look at our article about whether Teslas can be towed.

How Do Teslas With Rear-Wheel-Drive Handle Snow?

If you have good winter tires and are driving a Tesla with rear-wheel drive, you shouldn’t have any problems in the snow even if the vehicle doesn’t have all-wheel drive.

With the batteries being located below the floor of the Tesla, the vehicle has a significant amount of its weight centered low, which helps to maintain tire traction.

However, drivers of heavier vehicles are required to apply the brakes earlier than usual, which is especially important when traveling on roads covered in snow.

Can you Mount Snow tires on a Tesla?

Consider investing in the best winter tires for your Tesla, as icy, snowy, and wet roads are typical this time of year.

If you own a Tesla, you may know that the failure to change the tires before winter may make for an exciting trip.

Tesla Model X

Due to the Model X being a premium SUV, you may want to look at a premium tire.

The Pirelli Scorpion Winter would therefore be the best option for you as this tire has been built to operate exceptionally well in a wide range of climates and situations, including snow, rain, and dry conditions.

This product features an exceptionally low noise level and very little rolling resistance in addition to its excellent braking and handling capabilities. Each tire will set you back by $138.40.

Tesla Model Y

A set of Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 tires would be ideal for your Model Y. Michelin advertises the tire’s superior grip on snow and ice, so it makes sense that they would utilize it in such conditions.

Tire performance is improved by more than 5 percent when driving on snow and ice, and by as much as 10 percent in snow acceleration.

Better winter performance means you can stop your Model Y over 5 percent shorter on snow, ice, and wet roads, thanks to the tire’s reduced braking distance as a result of its increased flexibility in cold conditions. However for the increased performance, you will have to pay $325.99 for each tire.

Tesla Model 3

The premium specifications of the Kumho Wintercraft WP71 comprise of a tread composition that can withstand temperatures below freezing without affecting its flexibility.

The directed tread pattern improves the tire’s response to steering as well as its stability when it is being used on the road.

The durable construction of the tire and the interlocking tread blocks contribute to the tire’s long lifespan as well as its responsive handling.

In slick situations such as snow and ice, the honeycomb-like 3D sipes assist you maintain grip and maintain control of your vehicle. This tire is a more budget friendly option that will only cost you $141.00 per tire.

Tesla Model S

Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 tires are designed with high-end electric vehicles like Teslas and others in mind from the very beginning of the production process.

According to Pirelli, in order to give the best control and performance in any and all winter weather conditions, new compounds have been deployed, and an improved sipe design has been implemented.

This tire will cost you from $122.20.

Can You Mount Snow Chains On a Tesla?

Tesla sell snow chains for all models. The prices range from $160 for the Model 3 to $615 for the Model S.

It is important that you keep in mind that the only time that you should put tire chains on your vehicle is when there is ice or a layer snow on the road.

Take the chains off immediately when you encounter a more suitable road with no snow.

How much Snow can a Tesla Handle?

After reading this article, you’re now in the know – Teslas can handle snow! Though, the driving experience will be different to other vehicles.

It is imperative that you do not accelerate or brake with excessive force when you are behind the wheel of your Tesla on roads that are covered in snow or ice. Because of this, it’s possible that you will lose traction.

Additionally, it is essential that you provide gentle pressure when depressing the accelerator pedal.

Since electric vehicles do not function in the same way as cars powered by internal combustion engines, they have a function called regenerative braking. This immediately reduces the vehicle’s speed even when the brake is not being used by the driver.

Always keep in mind the charge of your Tesla’s battery. In a regular car, if you run out of gas on your way home, it’s just a quick stop to refuel.

However, consider that charging your Tesla battery could add 10-15 minutes in the cold on your way home from your Christmas dinner!

Sources

Winter Driving Tips
Is the Tesla good in the snow?
Best Tesla Winter Tires 2022-2023
Tesla Cold Weather Charging Guide