Tesla patent shows new Roadster with a hidden 700 kg-downforce rear wing

Key Points:

• Tesla has filed a patent for a two-piece active rear wing that hides flush in the bodywork and can generate up to 700 kg of downforce when deployed, a figure comparable to hypercars like the McLaren Senna.
• The wing deploys quickly (under 3 seconds) and adjusts its angle in under a quarter of a second, with automatic control based on driving conditions such as speed, braking, and GPS location, including an autonomous track mode.
• Safety features include mechanical latches and predictive sensor-based retraction to prevent injury to cyclists or motorcyclists in rear collisions, addressing regulatory concerns about the wing's extended position when deployed.
• The patent drawings depict a car resembling the upcoming Tesla Roadster, supporting speculation that this aerodynamic technology is intended for the new model, which Tesla plans to unveil on October 1, 2025.
• While promising serious track performance enhancements, the patent does not guarantee the wing will appear on production vehicles, and Tesla is known for patenting many concepts that do not reach market.