Which Tesla Doors Go Up? An Expert’s Deep Dive

Let’s cut straight to the chase: currently, only the rear doors of the Tesla Model X go up. These are famously known as Falcon Wing doors. No other Tesla model features doors that open vertically upwards. This design choice in the Model X is not just for show; it serves a practical purpose, which we’ll explore in more detail.

Understanding the Falcon Wing Doors

The Falcon Wing doors are arguably one of the most distinctive features of the Model X. More than just a gimmick, they were meticulously engineered to offer practical advantages, even though they also come with certain considerations.

The Purpose Behind the Design

The rationale behind the Falcon Wing doors lies in enhancing accessibility, particularly in tight parking spaces. Conventional car doors require a significant amount of lateral space to open fully. The Model X’s upward-swinging doors dramatically reduce this requirement, allowing passengers to enter and exit the vehicle comfortably even when parked between closely spaced cars. This is especially beneficial for accessing the rear seats, making it easier to install child seats or assist elderly passengers.

How the Doors Function

The Falcon Wing doors employ a complex network of sensors and actuators to ensure safe operation. Each door is equipped with ultrasonic sensors that detect obstacles in the immediate vicinity. These sensors prevent the doors from colliding with nearby objects like walls, ceilings, or other vehicles. The doors also utilize capacitive sensors, which can detect a person’s hand or body part to prevent accidental pinching or injury.

The doors are powered by electric motors that control the opening and closing motion. The system is designed to open the doors smoothly and silently, with variable speeds depending on the surrounding environment. The doors also have a hinge mechanism that allows them to articulate around obstacles, further maximizing their usability in confined spaces.

Advantages and Disadvantages

While the Falcon Wing doors offer undeniable advantages in terms of accessibility, they also come with certain trade-offs:

Advantages:

• Superior accessibility: Easier access to rear seats, especially in tight parking spaces.
• Unique aesthetic: The doors contribute to the Model X’s distinctive and futuristic appearance.
• Increased headroom: The upward-swinging motion provides more headroom for entering and exiting the vehicle.
• Show-stopping effect: Let’s face it, they look cool.

Disadvantages:

• Complexity and potential maintenance: The complex mechanical system is more prone to malfunctions and requires specialized maintenance.
• Potential for damage: Although equipped with sensors, the doors can still be susceptible to damage in very tight spaces or if the sensors malfunction.
• Cost: The Falcon Wing door system adds to the overall cost of the vehicle.
• Opening speed: While smooth, the doors are slower to open and close compared to conventional doors.

Falcon Wing Doors vs. Other Upward-Opening Doors

While the Model X’s Falcon Wing doors are unique in their execution, the concept of upward-opening doors isn’t new. There are several different types of upward-opening doors, each with its own distinct design and functionality.

Gullwing Doors

Gullwing doors are hinged at the roof and open upwards, resembling a seagull’s wings in flight. The most famous example is the Mercedes-Benz 300SL. Unlike the Falcon Wing doors, gullwing doors typically pivot at a single point on the roof.

Scissor Doors

Scissor doors are hinged at the front and open upwards vertically. They are commonly found on Lamborghini models, such as the Countach and Diablo. Scissor doors rotate upwards along a fixed axis.

Butterfly Doors

Butterfly doors are similar to scissor doors, but they also swing outwards as they open upwards. This allows for a wider opening and improved accessibility. Examples include the McLaren F1 and BMW i8.

Why Tesla Chose Falcon Wing Over Others

Tesla opted for the Falcon Wing design for the Model X because it offered the best compromise between accessibility, practicality, and safety. The Falcon Wing doors’ ability to articulate around obstacles and open in tight spaces made them ideally suited for a family-oriented SUV. Other upward-opening door designs might have compromised accessibility or required more space to operate.

FAQs about Tesla Doors

1. Will Future Tesla Models Feature Upward-Opening Doors?

Currently, Tesla has not announced any plans to incorporate upward-opening doors into future models. The Falcon Wing doors are a unique feature of the Model X, and it remains to be seen whether Tesla will revisit this design concept in future vehicles.

2. Can I Retrofit My Tesla with Falcon Wing Doors?

No, it is not possible to retrofit a Tesla model that did not originally come with Falcon Wing doors with this feature. The doors require significant structural modifications to the vehicle, including changes to the roof, frame, and electrical system. Such modifications would be prohibitively expensive and potentially compromise the vehicle’s safety.

3. How Do the Falcon Wing Doors Perform in Snow and Ice?

The Falcon Wing doors are designed to operate in a variety of weather conditions, including snow and ice. However, excessive accumulation of snow or ice can potentially interfere with the door’s operation. It’s recommended to clear any significant snow or ice buildup around the doors before attempting to open them.

4. What Happens if the Falcon Wing Doors Malfunction?

In the event of a malfunction, the Falcon Wing doors can be manually opened and closed. The manual override mechanism allows passengers to exit the vehicle even if the electrical system is not functioning properly. It is crucial to consult the owner’s manual for instructions on how to operate the manual override.

5. Are the Falcon Wing Doors Safe for Children?

The Falcon Wing doors are equipped with sensors designed to prevent injuries to children. However, it’s always recommended to supervise children when they are near the doors to ensure their safety. The capacitive sensors should prevent pinching, but vigilance is always key.

6. How Much Do the Falcon Wing Doors Add to the Cost of the Model X?

The Falcon Wing doors are a significant contributor to the higher price of the Model X compared to other Tesla models. While the exact cost is not publicly disclosed, it’s estimated that the complex engineering and manufacturing of the doors add several thousand dollars to the vehicle’s price.

7. Do the Falcon Wing Doors Affect the Car’s Aerodynamics?

Yes, the Falcon Wing doors do have a slight impact on the Model X’s aerodynamics. When closed, the doors are designed to be flush with the body of the vehicle to minimize drag. However, the door seams and gaps can slightly increase drag compared to a conventional door design.

8. Are the Falcon Wing Doors Durable?

The Falcon Wing doors are designed to be durable and withstand normal use. However, the complex mechanical system is more prone to wear and tear compared to conventional doors. Regular maintenance and inspection are essential to ensure the long-term reliability of the doors.

9. Can the Falcon Wing Doors Open in Garages with Low Ceilings?

The Falcon Wing doors are designed to open in garages with relatively low ceilings. The sensors prevent the doors from hitting the ceiling, and the articulation mechanism allows them to open partially if necessary. However, it’s always a good idea to test the door’s operation in your garage before parking the Model X regularly.

10. How Do I Maintain the Falcon Wing Doors?

Regular maintenance of the Falcon Wing doors includes keeping the sensors clean and free of debris. It’s also recommended to lubricate the hinges and actuators periodically to ensure smooth operation. Consulting the owner’s manual for specific maintenance recommendations is crucial.

11. What Happens if the Car is Upside Down, Can the Doors Still Open?

This is a critical question, and the answer is nuanced. While the Falcon Wing doors have a manual override, opening them when the car is upside down would require significant force and might be impossible depending on the severity of the situation. Furthermore, the sensors would likely be ineffective in that scenario. Your best bet is to rely on emergency services for extraction in such a scenario.

12. Are there any documented cases of the Falcon Wing Doors causing accidents or injuries?

While there have been anecdotal reports of minor incidents involving the Falcon Wing doors, there are no documented cases of the doors causing serious accidents or injuries. The sensors and safety mechanisms are designed to prevent such incidents, but as with any mechanical system, there is always a potential for malfunction.

The Falcon Wing doors are a bold and innovative feature that distinguishes the Tesla Model X from other SUVs. While they offer undeniable advantages in terms of accessibility and aesthetics, they also come with certain considerations regarding cost, complexity, and potential maintenance. Whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks is a matter of personal preference.