Tesla’s Model X is an iconic electric vehicle that stands out from the crowd thanks to its signature Falcon Wing doors. While these doors have become a symbol of the Model X, they weren’t always so easy to design and implement. Tesla recently took to its archives and shared a video of how the Model X got its wings, and it wasn’t by way of Red Bull, though the engineers likely had some very late nights during the design process.
The video shows Tesla’s early attempts at creating the Falcon Wing doors, which were strapped to a Model S to figure out how they were going to work. The video then switches to a new Model X with the actual doors in action. The Falcon Wing doors have multiple joints that allow them to open and close in such a way that the electric SUV can handle being parked in tight spots without concern. Tesla also adds that the doors make it easy to access the third-row seats, even if there are kid car seats in the second row.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk might be the first to admit that the Model X should go on a long list of the electric automaker’s early blunders. The Falcon Wing doors likely seemed they were more work than their worth, especially in the early stages of the engineering process. While it took Tesla plenty of time to get the bugs worked it, we don’t often hear of issues with the innovative doors today, and it’s honestly amazing to watch them work their magic.
Years ago, Musk showed off how the Falcon Wing doors open in tight parking spots. Since then, several Tesla owners and reviewers have also demonstrated how the doors work. It seems based on the video below that the mechanism has been significantly improved over time.
The Tesla Model S and Model X don’t sell well compared to the newer Model 3 and Model Y, but they still outsell many EV rivals. Moreover, they’re definitely icons for the EV maker that many folks expected would go bankrupt long before the more affordable EVs ever came to market. As time goes on, Tesla, Musk, and the company’s team members may look back at the Model X with some regrets, but they should also be proud of how far the company has come, with great emphasis on accomplishments like Model X’s Falcon Wing doors.
FAQ
Q1: Are electric car batteries recyclable?
A1: Yes, electric car batteries are recyclable.
Q2: Are electric car chargers free?
A2: It depends on the charger and the location. Some electric car chargers are free, while others may require a fee.
Q3: Can electric car batteries be rebuilt?
A3: Yes, electric car batteries can be rebuilt with the right tools and knowledge.
