Tesla has been granted US patent 12,746,987 B1 for an electric fan car system. The design utilizes four electric ducted fans integrated into the rear diffuser to generate downforce by creating a suction region under the vehicle floor. The system is designed to operate independently of vehicle speed, aiming to improve braking stability and cornering performance.
The patent, filed in January 2024 and based on a provisional application from January 2023, describes a setup powered by the vehicle's main high-voltage battery. The system can be activated manually by the driver or automatically at specific speeds. An alternative version of the design includes secondary side inlets to prevent air backwash and improve power efficiency.
Although the patent illustrations feature a Model S, production of that vehicle ceased in April. With the Model S line discontinued, the technology is considered a potential candidate for the upcoming Tesla Roadster. This patent follows a previous fan-based design from August 2025 and a recent filing for an active rear wing capable of producing 700 kg of downforce.
The concept of fan-assisted downforce has historical precedents in motorsports, such as the Chaparral 2J and the Brabham BT46B. Modern electric vehicles like the McMurtry Spéirling also utilize similar technology, having achieved significant downforce figures and production status. Tesla's approach distinguishes itself by attempting to package the fans within a standard diffuser without requiring side skirts.
