When it comes to combining luxury, innovation, and sustainability, Tesla’s Model S has been a game-changer in the world of electric vehicles. With its sleek design and cutting-edge features, it’s no wonder that the Model S has captured the hearts of many.
However, beneath its impressive exterior lies a design flaw that has left some Tesla owners feeling the heat – quite literally.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into the world of the Tesla Model S glass roof and the challenges it poses in terms of heat control.
We’ll explore the science behind the issue, debunk common myths, and provide practical solutions to ensure your Tesla driving experience remains cool and comfortable.
Understanding the Tesla Model S Glass Roof Heat Issue
The Panoramic Glass Roof Design
At first glance, the panoramic glass roof of the Tesla Model S is a sight to behold. Stretching from the front to the rear of the car, it offers unobstructed views of the sky, creating an open and spacious feel inside the vehicle.
However, this design choice has unintended consequences, particularly when it comes to temperature control.
The Role of Coatings
Tesla’s engineers have incorporated multiple coatings into the glass roof, designed to block harmful elements such as UV rays, solar energy, and infrared (IR) rays. These coatings are effective in restricting UV rays by up to 99%, and they do a commendable job of absorbing IR rays. However, it’s the IR rays that contribute to the heat issue.
While IR rays themselves are not heating, they do lead to the vibration of molecules within the glass, generating heat. The glass roof’s ability to block these rays means that the roof itself absorbs the heat and, over time, radiates it into the vehicle’s interior.
The Summer Sizzle
So, you may wonder, if the UV and IR rays are blocked, why does your Tesla Model S still feel like an oven in the summer? The answer lies in the heat that accumulates within the glass roof and gets transferred into the car’s cabin.
On a sunny day, your parked Tesla can become uncomfortably hot, and this heat can affect even the tallest passengers, with their heads just inches away from the roof. While the glass roof does an admirable job of keeping harmful rays out, it struggles to keep the interior temperature in check.
The Myth of Tesla Roof Heat Rejection
Dispelling Misconceptions
One common misconception among Tesla owners is that the glass roof provides effective heat rejection. While the glass is indeed tinted and capable of blocking solar rays to some extent, it falls short in terms of heat rejection.
In certain situations, you may not immediately feel the heat radiating from the glass roof, but on a scorching day, the discomfort becomes palpable, especially for those seated close to the roof. This leads us to the realization that Tesla’s glass roof isn’t the solution to the heat challenge.
The Challenges of Solar Heat
The truth is that Tesla’s glass roofs, while visually stunning, don’t offer the same heat resistance as conventional car roofs.
The combination of high external temperatures and direct sunlight can turn your Tesla Model S into a veritable sauna. While traditional car roofs can also get hot, the experience in a glass-roofed Tesla feels more intense.
The amount of heat you experience in your Tesla can vary based on your location, the strength of sunlight, and the season. If you’re driving in the scorching heat of summer, you’re likely to feel the heat more acutely, making it essential to find effective ways to manage it.
Solutions to Combat Tesla Model S Glass Roof Heat
Now that we’ve explored the challenges posed by the Tesla Model S glass roof’s heat absorption, let’s delve into practical solutions that can help you keep your cool while driving.
Pre-Conditioning the Car Before Driving
One of the standout features of Tesla ownership is the ability to control your car remotely using the Tesla app. This feature comes to the rescue when it comes to countering the heating problem, especially on sunny days.
Many Tesla owners have lamented returning to a sweltering car after leaving it parked in the sun. To address this issue, you have two approaches:
Leaving the Air Conditioning On: This method keeps the vehicle cool while you’re away. However, it may not be practical if you’ll be parked for an extended period, or if there’s no nearby charging outlet, as the air conditioning consumes significant battery power.
Pre-Cooling the Cabin: If you anticipate leaving your car parked for a while, you can use the app to remotely turn on the air conditioning a few minutes before your return. This cools the vehicle while conserving battery power. Keep in mind that this method isn’t suitable if your vehicle’s power is below 20% or if it’s in Sentry Mode.
Using Roof Shades: An Effective, Yet Compromising Solution
Installing an internal roof shade is a practical way to significantly reduce the internal temperature of your Tesla Model S.
These shades are readily available online, on platforms like Amazon, or at nearby auto stores. They are generally easy to install, although an extra pair of hands can make the process smoother.
However, using an internal roof shade does come with a few caveats. You may find yourself repeatedly installing and removing the shade, as it obstructs your view of the panoramic roof and rearview mirror.
This trade-off between comfort and aesthetics can be a drawback for some, but it’s one of the most effective solutions for lowering the interior temperature of your Tesla Model S.
Replacement Considerations: The Costly Option
Replacing the entire glass roof of your Tesla Model S is an option but comes at a significant cost. Even the glass roof replacement for a Tesla Model 3 can exceed a thousand dollars, and for the Model S, it’s even more expensive. Therefore, it’s not the most practical solution for addressing the heat issue.
We recommend considering the cost-effective solutions mentioned earlier, as they not only keep your Tesla cooler but also allow you to enjoy the panoramic view when desired.
The alternatives we’ve discussed strike a balance between comfort and affordability, making them a more appealing choice for most Tesla owners.
Additional Tips for Tesla Model S Comfort: Climate, Tinting, and Accessories
While the glass roof heat issue is a significant concern, several factors can influence your overall comfort when driving a Tesla Model S.
Local Climate and Sunlight: The temperature and strength of sunlight in your region can have a substantial impact on the heat inside your Tesla. Understanding your local climate patterns can help you plan accordingly, especially during the summer months.
Tinting the Glass: Tinting the glass roof is an effective way to reduce the interior temperature of your Tesla. It not only enhances comfort but also provides additional protection for your skin. Tinting is a popular choice among Tesla owners looking to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality.
Tesla Model S Glass Roof Sunshade: Tesla offers an accessory designed to further reduce the transmission of heat and sunlight into the vehicle through the glass roof. This sunshade, constructed with lightweight mesh fabric and a collapsible rigid frame, significantly reduces heat transmission into the cabin.
Can You Get Sunburned Through a Tesla Model S Glass Roof?
One of the concerns that Tesla owners often have is whether prolonged exposure to the sun through the glass roof can lead to sunburn. Fortunately, Tesla has taken measures to address this issue.
Tesla’s glass roof is coated with multiple filters designed to block up to 99% of UV rays. This level of UV protection ensures that passengers in a Tesla are safe from sunburn and the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Additionally, the glass roof’s ability to absorb UV rays means that it won’t suffer from aging or deterioration due to exposure to sunlight. The amount of light that penetrates the glass roof is insignificant in terms of affecting your skin.
To experience sunburn from riding in a Tesla Model S, you would need to spend an extensive amount of time in the car under extreme sun exposure—far beyond what would typically occur during regular driving.
However, if you’re still concerned about sunburn, you have the option to tint the glass, further enhancing skin protection. Tinted windows absorb a significant amount of sunlight, making them an effective shield against UV rays.
Conclusion
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the challenges and solutions related to the Tesla Model S glass roof heat issue.
While the glass roof design offers stunning panoramic views, it can lead to discomfort on hot days. However, by implementing practical solutions such as pre-conditioning, using roof shades, and considering tinting, you can ensure a more enjoyable and comfortable driving experience.
Tesla has taken measures to protect passengers from sunburn, making it unnecessary to tint the glass solely for skin protection. Instead, you can focus on enhancing overall comfort while preserving the breathtaking panoramic views that make Tesla ownership so exceptional.