When it comes to maximizing the range of a Tesla or any electric car, aerodynamics and weight play a big role. Three common loading solutions for EVs are roof rack, roof box and rear box. Each of these has a different impact on EV performance and range. Here is a comparison of how these solutions affect the range of your EV.

Roof rack for electric cars

Roof racks are one of the simplest and cheapest solutions for transporting extra cargo. It is often used to secure different types of cargo, such as bicycles, skis or surfboards.

Advantages:

  • Easy to install and remove.
  • Flexibility to attach different types of cargo.

Disadvantages:

  • Increases drag even when not loaded, which can negatively affect range.
  • Usually not very aerodynamic.

Impact on range:

A Tesla Model 3 can lose up to 5-10% of its range with an empty roof rack installed. At higher speeds and with a loaded roof rack, the loss can increase further depending on the shape and size of the load.

Roof racks

Roof box for electric car

Roof boxes are a popular solution for increasing cargo capacity in a safe and weather-protected way. Roof boxes are specially designed to be as aerodynamic as possible.

advantages:

  • Protects cargo from the elements.
  • Relatively aerodynamic design compared to just a roof rack.

Disadvantages:

  • Increases the height of the car and thus affects aerodynamics.
  • Can be cumbersome to load and unload.

Impact on reach:

 A roof box affects the aerodynamics of the car more than an empty roof rack, which can lead to a range loss of up to 10-15% depending on the size and shape. For long-distance driving, the loss can be even greater.

Roof boxes

Rear box electric car

The rear box is a cargo solution that is mounted on the car's towbar and can be an attractive solution for those who do not want to affect the car's aerodynamics as much as a roof box.

Advantages:

  • Less impact on car aerodynamics compared to roof box and roof rack.
  • Easy to load and unload.
  • Does not affect car height.

Disadvantages:

  • May affect the car's rear parking sensors and rear view camera.
  • Requires a tow bar, which not all cars have.

Impact on reach: 

The rear box usually has a smaller negative impact on range compared to a roof box. It can reduce the range by about 5-10% depending on its design and weight. On highway driving, this impact is usually less than for roof boxes.

When considering which loading solution is best to maintain the range of a Tesla, one should weigh the pros and cons of the different solutions. In general, roof racks and roof boxes affect range the most due to the increased air resistance, while a rear box, while also incurring some loss, affects range the least of the three options. When planning long journeys with heavy loads, it may therefore be wise to choose a rear box to maximize range.

By being aware of how different loading solutions affect the aerodynamics of the car and thus the range, you can make more informed choices that lead to a more efficient and economical journey.