Quote:
Originally Posted by DGthe3
The Ring? Hell, the Model S can't complete a full hot lap at VIR. Car & Driver brought one out last year for the Lightning Lap and it lasted all of 40 seconds before it cut power.
Wouldn't surprise me if the new Roadster can't actually achieve its claimed top speed. It should take at least 30 seconds, probably 45 or more, of constant acceleration for it to hit 250 mph. As tough as a road course is, there are still periods of partial or no throttle to help keep things cooler. And the Model S doesn't have as much juice as the new Roadster will have. Maybe they'll have a kickass thermal management system in place, but I doubt it.
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BUT! In order to maximize efficiency, the car will regeneratively brake to recapture power during those no/part throttle moments...which will generate more heat.
It really isn't that hard to cool down an electric motor... The ICE generates far more heat, and manufacturers have got that down to a science.
My guess is they opted not to do it, because that would decrease the car's aerodynamic properties, and ultimately decrease range.