Aero wheel covers and range

Some Teslas come with plastic Aero covers over the alloy wheels. Many owners take them off because they prefer the look of the wheels underneath.

Do they save range?

Yes, a little. Wheels churn the air as they spin, and smooth covers reduce that drag. Tesla and independent tests have put the saving at a few per cent at motorway speeds. At town speeds the difference is small.

Should you keep them on?

• Long motorway commutes: a few per cent adds up over a year, and the covers protect the alloys from kerb damage and brake dust.
• Mostly town driving: the saving is small, so it's mostly about looks.
• Winter: covers keep salty grime off the alloy faces.

Taking them off and on

Covers pull off by hand. Store them flat somewhere they won't be crushed. If you refit them, push evenly until every clip engages. A loose cover can fly off.