Tesla has filed a patent for a two-piece active rear wing assembly, designated as US 2026/0285418 A1. The mechanism is designed to remain flush with the vehicle bodywork when stowed and can generate up to 700 kg of downforce when fully deployed at high speeds.
The system utilizes a four-bar linkage, linear rails, or lead screws to transition from a stowed position to full deployment in under 3 seconds. The wing's angle can be adjusted in less than a quarter of a second, with non-back-drivable actuators maintaining the position without continuous power draw.
Control of the wing is automated, relying on data from speed, acceleration, steering angle, brake input, GPS, and autonomous driving sensors. The system adjusts the wing's profile to reduce drag on straights or increase downforce during braking and cornering, including automatic activation at racing circuits.
To address safety concerns regarding the wing's extension beyond the rear of the car, Tesla included two systems. A mechanical latch releases the wing upon impact, while a predictive sensor-based system retracts the assembly if a rear collision is anticipated.
The patent filing, published by the USPTO on September 24, 2026, features illustrations resembling a 2+2 fastback, consistent with the expected design of the next-generation Tesla Roadster. The company previously filed a related application in March 2025.
