As opposed to the hundreds of videos scientific testings on tracks, and on extreme conditions, this video shows what the real life serves you and it's EXACTLY what i was looking for !! Thanks for putting this together guys :D
4:45 I think the term "Give it gas" will exist forever, because in the UK where we call gasoline "Petrol" we don't call it the "petrol pedal", we call it the "accelerator" or "throttle" pedal, but driving instructors in the UK are trained to call it "gas" when talking to learner drivers, because it's quicker than saying "accelerator", and generally when you need to add power (especially in a manual car like we drive in the UK mainly) you need to add it quickly even in autos/EVs it's important (imagine a leaner driver not going fast enough on an "on ramp", you'd want to get the message across pretty quickly)
Yeah, the VW is close to 500 lb lighter. Weight definitely helped the Tesla more. But weight of engine was directly over it’s front wheel drive wheels.
@@RockyMountainTesla Hi, I ended up switching to the LR-AWD... Tesla here had a special low-interest rate deal that was better than all other options so I took it. took delivery on the 28th of December and been going on several mountain trips in -20 to -30c. :D
I live in Mtl and we received 15-20cm of snow today. I went up a steep hill and made to the top quite easily. I was quite happy. I drove all day on snowy streets and was quite impressed with the overall stability of the car.
Thank you guys you are the best !! Purchased Tesla y 2021 RWD standard range 2 weeks ago and now I can sleep better 😀 I thought my RWD driving will be impossible in the winter and now you just proved it is better than FWD if not as good as AWD
It's always gonna be the tires on the vehicle that make the difference obviously if you have an AWD A 4X4 FWD and RWD competing with the same tires the 4x4 is gonna absolutely stomp but a 4x4 on all seasons vs a RWD with snow tires is quite competitive
I had a 2011 BMW 3 series RWD with snow tires and it drove much better than front wheel drives many times I saw Toyota Camry or Honda's stuck with front wheel drives and I past them like nothing. In the case of Tesla it's even better because the weight distribution is evenly spread in the center, all you need is a set of winter tires and that's it
THANK YOU SO MUCH for making this video. I have a performance Model 3, and my wife wants a tesla now (obviously lol). Your video helped prove that RWD Model Y is sufficient for our needs. 🙏😁
Thanks, that’s good to hear. It’s great that they came out with the RWD Model Y SR! I hope this video helps more people too! Please share when others ask the same questions as you!
Have always pondered this exact question. Now I know! To see the Tesla go uphill without trouble was really something else. A fantastic video and dialogue!
This is the kind of video I've been looking for. I'm trying to figure out if RWD will do alright (with snow tires of course) in winter with the big hill I've got and this gives me more faith in the base model 3. I might still go for a used M3LR if I can, but this is really cool to see.
I used low budget studded tires on my old bmws never had an issue on icy roads or icy hills at all, could stsrt in the middle of the hill when its was almost pure ice, now in looking for the comfort of friction tires if they are worth trying😂
@@highmarkrich That is true, but if I can find an LR used for the same price as a standard, it's kind of a no-brainer. If I find it for maybe, say, a few grand more, then it might be worth it for the fact it has fog lights and standard doesn't. What's really frustrating for me as a potential Tesla buyer (whenever I manage that kind of money) is that there's so many options and I have to consider what year it came out, on top of that. I've been making a spreadsheet to list out what differences there are between each year of M3 and MS and I've been highlighting them red/yellow/green for how important they are and even then I think the decision is rough. It's hard for me to put a solid value on the various features and what I'd be happy with not having. The prices on the used market can be pretty insane sometimes, too. I know sometimes they're fake postings to get people on the lot, but still...
@kyleb8117 Yep, I know what you mean. I just got a new M3. The LR was 15k more. With the new battery chemistry letting the RWD charge to 100%, it was a much easier decision as my daily commuting would actually get me more range than the LR at 80%.
Great of you both to share your experience with the RWD. I just bought a used car Model S RWD and was wondering about how I was going to be able to drive un in the Alps next winter, which I do about every week-end to go skiing... It's my first electric car and I'm very happy about my present driving experience (in summer) but It seems I can stick to my RWD and won't have to change for a AWD finally. Thanks a lot !
Totally awesome. Tesla RWD + snow tires does not equal ICE car RWD + snow tires. If people in Canada are fine with RWD, anyone in the US should be fine with RWD.
I am just before purchasing a Y RWD. I am from near Salzburg, so driving on snow matters. Thanks for Your video, because I remember all the situations, where real wheel drive cars made on snow a traffic jam because not able to start uphill.
Though I admit I may have missed it, I was disappointed that the video did not mention that winter tires were being used on this car during this test drive. However, when I scrolled down on all these comments, I saw 2 entries that admitted that they were using, in fact, snow tires. Now, I'm not saying that this is a deal breaker. I would think 4 winter tires, at least in the Northeast US, would cost in the $1500 range. That's very little compared to getting a dual motor Tesla. However, there IS the twice yearly changing of the tires and, or course, storing 4 tires all year. I just think that by conveniently omitting this snow tire fact, it makes me wonder if the people who made this video did not have some financial connection with Tesla or their local Tesla dealer. Lastly, I should admit that this was in Canada, and perhaps it's a much more common thing to have snow tires on cars, so perhaps that's why they didn't mention it. Still, somewhat weak, I would think.
Read the description of the video. Besides the fact that I get free supercharger miles from referrals and I own Tesla shares I have no connection to Tesla. Switching tires yearly is something almost everyone in Canada or northern climates does. All wheel drive does not replace the need for snow rated tires.
It was great to see a video like this. Nit many out there showing winter driving with the RWD Model 3 and maybe the only one comparing winter driving to a GTI. Ive owned a Golf, 2 GTIs, a Passat AWD and a Golf R AWD. All have been excellent in the snow but the two AWDs are the kind to never get stuck. So glad to see that RWD SR+ can do so well. I'd like to see this test with the dual motor model 3 vs the RWD Model 3.
My wife has an hour long commute each day and we’re considering the Model 3 as her daily driver. We’re mostly considering the Long Range dual motor because of the ocasional rainy/snowy day, but this video is making me reconsider. Maybe a Standard Range plus would be sufficient.
Lots of things to consider, like winter range too. Please subscribe, and check out more videos on the channel if you need more info. Thanks for commenting!
It might, even though efficiency is lower in winter, it’s less of a reduction when driving on freeway. I’ve had 80% efficiency in -13c driving in 80 to 90 km per hour conditions. Really depends how big the commute is... paying for battery you won’t use is a bit of waste in many ways...
Awesome. This convinced me that the issue with my MYSR performing really bad in winter is not because it's RWD but it's about the bad stock Goodyear M+S.
People seem to ignore the difference that winter tyres make more than all-wheel drive. AWD + Winter may be better but RWD + Winter is definitely better than AWD with "all season" tyres.
@@RockyMountainTesla Definitely. It's also obvious that electric traction (instant/adjustable) would be better than mechanical traction. It's another industry, but there are videos of heavy freight locomotives purposely slip-starting (diesel generators + electric motors). Fascinating to see what's possible with some computing.
Just returned a 2017 GTI and then saw this video. Other winter test videos don't show how Tesla stops and starts on a snowy hill and your video answered this question perfectly. Thanks!
Thank you guys for making this video it is pushing me in the direction of buying a Tesla asap only thing I am concerned about is the battery life in winter.
Thanks 🙏 I have done more videos on weather and cold effects on driving. At this point if you ordered a Tesla you wouldn’t be getting it until Spring. Unless you can find a used Tesla for the same price as new right now.
Wow. The Tesla was impressive. I had a lot of anxiety and doubt watching your Tesla go up the steep incline. Growing up in the 90s, my parents drove rwd German cars. Living in nyc area, we didn’t use snow tires. Any bit of snow and a slight incline, the cars would get stuck.
It's the tires not the Tesla that was mostly impressing you. Tesla's low power in the snow helps but without those tires the Tesla would have never moved. That FWD car with the same tires and a good driver would have shown to everyone this was a comparison of tires mostly video. It just goes to show with the right tires even a RWD will work in some snow conditions.
That’s impressive for a Tesla in the snow . How does the Tesla do parked outside in winter conditions? Does it have starting issues ? I live in northeast and considering a Tesla but so far only see people in Warmer climate and parked in garage is ok but for me it’s not a real northeast winter car if it cannot function after being outside freezing temps with snow sleet etc. Thanks for sharing
It could operate ok in cold temperatures even on a daily basis. It would be better if you could also keep it plugged in under those conditions because you can get the battery preconditioned for every day. Check out my shortened video of comparing warming up the model 3 vs VW GTI after being out overnight at -18 Celsius: ruclips.net/video/I1E91Nu8ckU/видео.html
This video settled me to get Model Y confidently after you showed how a Model 3 rear-wheel drive performs in uphill with calgary winter snow. Thanks! What sucks is that on the Tesla dealership, I was rushing to get to this video to use your code. Unfortunately, I clicked on a different video thinking it was this one and got someone else's code. Lmao. My bad 🤣
But only because the engine is weighting down the front end. With an EV the battery make’s for a more even weight distribution and RWD works great because the motor has way better control of torque.
@@RockyMountainTesla You can turn the wheel all the to right or left if you really get stuck in snow. If you get stuck in a real wheel only you just gonna dig a deeper hole in the snow. I'm talking about snow on dirt not just snow on cement
Thanks for the great video. I am from northern Minnesota - snow and cold are real things here, as they are where you are at. Your video (and a couple of others) have opened the the market up for me as I had worried about the RWD in ways in which I would never worry about FWD cars. Question: The newer RWD 3s have the LiFePo battery packs in them that are a bit heavier, but also a bit safer. They seem to suffer from cold temperature range degradation more than the Li-ion batteries but welcome charging to 100% regularly. Would you consider a newer Model 3 RWD with the different battery type?
I absolutely would consider the LFP chemistry, especially because of the daily charge to 100%. I’m not sure it’s that much worse than the long range battery efficiency in cold temps. E.g. yesterday driving about 100 km in our LR Model Y at -20C around the city, we had about 50% of rated range. When it gets this cold it’s pretty bad no matter what the battery chemistry.
Interesting, I know there are many sporty variants that are RWD, but didn’t know there were more RWD cars on the road. It would be fun to compare a RWD sports sedan next time. Just need a subscriber to offer :)
Hi, question: which statement is true based on your experience and testing? A.) RWD traction is more than enough for Canadian winter. I would buy it and buying AWD doesnt add much more value or B.) RWD can help a tiny bit in extreme dicey winter situations (better than nothing) but i would still prefer an AWD?
I have not been stuck once in 4 winters in my SR+ RWD with snow tires, that said, my AWD Model Y is better. If I were to replace my RWD Model 3 with a Y I would easily choose the RWD Y, because I already have an AWD Y. It’s more of a budget decision than absolute need.
Wow. That’s very impressive. I have a wrangler 😂 the reason was stress about snow. But the tesla rwd doing so well, I want to buy a model Y RWD. Do u thinking can I service heavy snow and ice 🥶. +Up hill.. 😥 Bty Thanks for the video, awesome 👏
@@RockyMountainTesla thanks for the answer 🤗. Every winter my area got so much snow and ice 🥶 especially I’m living in up hill 😬 so, I’m really trying to figure out RWD with winter tires can do it or not 🤔 I prefer AWD but too expensive 🥲
Excellent 👌😊. I just bought my wife a Tesla model 3 rear drive. I didn't get all wheel drive because my wife is a housewife and if we get snow she stays home. I'm happy to see how well it does because you never know when you might need it. Do you have the factory tires or snow tires? We have factory hankook tires. Thank you 👍
We have winter tires, info in description. I’m not changing over the tires this winter either. Not driving the 3 much this winter as we drive the Y more often. It does get a little slippery without winter tires though.
@@RockyMountainTesla Yes I'm sure. They sell winter tires for a reason. We live in Eastern Maryland just outside of Ocean City We may be get one or two snows a winner and it doesn't even last a day. So we will stick with the factory Eco tires. Thank you that was a fun video 👍
This was very interesting to watch. I used to have a FWD Golf, now I’ve got an AWD 3 series and I’m considering going for an EV. I kind of wanna go for an RWD EV to save money and for the better range. I keep thinking how my Golf handled our Norwegian winters…I never had any problems with it. Dunno why there is this fear of not having AWD and especially RWD.
Electric motors handle torque better so it’s practically a non issue in an EV especially with snow tires. That’s the point I was trying to show with the video. I think it has worked pretty well. Hope it helped you too!
Thanks guys!!! I'm thinking of buying Tesla and had doubts about rear drive in Ukrainian winter. Now I'm sure that I want this car and I can handle it!))))
Should it not be beneficial for it automatically go into slip start in those situations? I wonder if the average user is even aware of the option to switch modes to help climb an icy hill.
I'm looking at getting an SR+ (3 or Y), but these road conditions were my biggest concern. My 2nd biggest concern is lack of Superchargers to where I need to go. One route is 252 miles between Superchargers and the one I do often is 331 miles between Superchargers. Luckily 2 additional Superchargers are being added on each route. I should be good with an SR+ after that.
really appreciated your video. Im thinking to get a model 3 LR. but what you think in deep snow since i m in Calgary too. also if i leave my car for ten hours outside when it is -30c or colder, would it be a problem ???
Sorry I didn’t get back to you earlier. Winter tires make a big difference. A Long Range is AWD, so better in deeper snow, but clearance is king, and a Model Y AWD will always do better in deeper snow. I don’t really worry too much about cold weather driving at -30, and our garage is about -15c. I always warm it up before driving though.
@@RockyMountainTeslaThanks. So they’re winter tires. My problem is I live in a place where it only snows maybe 5-6 times a year, so not often enough to justify snow tires but just often enough to have to consider snow and possibly get caught in it. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for the awesome video, I was always wondering about how a rwd tesla would handle snow situation because of the more evenly distributed weight and the traction control. So I might go and get the rwd Model 3 then if I don't end up going with the ID4, I always find the awd version too expensive, the rwd is some what of an acceptable price.
M3 RWD 2023 Right tire on wet grass, Left tire on concrete, In reverse, it left a huge muddy rut dragging the Right tire through the wet grass 😞 It seems like a major ESC software problem. Where it should allow the right tire to just roll.
As someone driving in possibly the worst city for ice and snow = Quebec city : I found it odd that you were gunning it which messes the static vs dynamic traction. I've seen many a time where someone would try to make the wheels go as fast as possible only to start swaying & eventual start sliding backwards. I took the same route with minimal power and was able to make it all the way. Even with a Tesla I would avoid flooring it to get as much low-speed grip as I can .. but since I own one now -- I'll be able to confirm / infirm this soon ;- )
The electric motors are actually not applying any more force than necessary unless you change the settings to slip start which will apply some wheel spin. Congratulations on the new car!
@@RockyMountainTesla would you then consider chill rather than standard mode ? Thanks - so far (regardless of all the criticism it attracts) I'm still loving it -- and that is after extensive experience with my wife's Soul-EV and my own e-Golf (which was awesome) just short on autonomy. -> the defrosting windshield and the pivoting-logo backing-up camera was amazing.
Thank you guys for this awsome video. I'm Calgarian too and been thinking of buying a Model 3 Standard Range, but I wonder how it would perform in -36C weather and specially when it has been parked outside overnight.
You’re welcome. Can you keep it plugged in? That will keep the Battery Management System (BMS) operational and keeping the battery as warm as it needs to be. Also a level 2 outlet (208v/240v) would be better than just a regular wall outlet. The rest is just the regular wear you get from always parking outside.
Interesting idea 💡. Timing of that can be tricky. Basically once you get snow deeper than the car clearance you will get stuck too. In 3 years I haven’t got stuck yet though in the Model 3. My Model Y LR AWD makes it all look easy!
Not really same as ice rear wheel either as weight distribution is 50/50 vs 60/40. Bit definitely impressed and makes me think I may get just the red here in erie pa. I drove a red pickup here for 3 years as long as you get good snows should be good.
Thank you, I never have a car yet and plan to buy model 3, and in my place have winter and summer so I afraid of rwd, and I think I have to buy awd-longrange which will cost higher for Winter. But after you video I will choose rwd as I need to save money.
M3 sr+ is a horrible winter car. My 3rd winter with mine and I won’t change my mind. Tonight I could not reach my house again at the top of à not so steep hill in snowy conditions. All my neighbours cars made it. Looking forward to selling it and get the vw id4 I ordered.
Our Model Y is much better with AWD, but I never experienced what you did in the model 3 SR+. I also have Nokian Hakka R3’s. The hill in the video is a 15-18% grade. I’m sure the ID4 will be great with AWD!
without having the EXACT same tires on both cars...this test is non-valid. For all I know that VW has summer tires on.... Impressive Tesla RWD climb tho....never thought it would go up. Its exactly what i was looking for. Thanks for the video
This is one of the best model 3 videos guys, great job. I live in MA and have this car on order. We also have a XC-90 and a X5, but I will use the Tesla around town. Cheers Canadian bros.
Haha. That’s what that extra trunk space is for under the panel. You fill it with sand in the winter 😂 still very impressive that this does so well without studs. I love AWD for the front wheel pull even just when steering, but this is reassuring to see given BC doesn’t usually get freeeezing and snowy like AB. I’d expect the VW has narrower tires too. Very interesting.
Our AWD Model Y is amazing, but still get by just fine in winter with the RWD Model 3 with the winter tires, even 3 seasons in, just need to find the time to get the tire change done this year!
I grew up in Rochester NY with plenty of snow and hills, live in Denver now and agree with everything said but add the secret to successful winter driving is experience, drive in snow all winter and you will get pretty good at it, occasional storms (like here) you might be stuck and sliding or worse. I’d sure like to know how slip start works since there is no propulsion in the front and no way to alter weight distribution. Snow tires with studs-absolutely.
It’s the Dellin Fat Gecko Triple, you also need an attachment that holds the phone: Delkin DDMNT-TRIPLE Fat Gecko... www.amazon.ca/dp/B00A86MMY8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share Check out the ULANZI tripod mounts for phones.
I’ve heard new owners already have the modified frunk and I have heard reports that the Chinese model 3 is already reporting it will be receiving the Octovalve and heat pump. So soon is the only thing I could guess...
What tires are on it?
nokian hakkapeliitta r3
@@RockyMountainTesla tell me Nokian is Finnish with out telling me its Finnish :D
@@RockyMountainTesla wow those are good tires too. This is brutal lol
Hakkas are best of the best winter tires!
@@MrMannyhw nope. not by a long shot.
As opposed to the hundreds of videos scientific testings on tracks, and on extreme conditions, this video shows what the real life serves you and it's EXACTLY what i was looking for !! Thanks for putting this together guys :D
Thanks 🙏
4:45 I think the term "Give it gas" will exist forever, because in the UK where we call gasoline "Petrol" we don't call it the "petrol pedal", we call it the "accelerator" or "throttle" pedal, but driving instructors in the UK are trained to call it "gas" when talking to learner drivers, because it's quicker than saying "accelerator", and generally when you need to add power (especially in a manual car like we drive in the UK mainly) you need to add it quickly even in autos/EVs it's important (imagine a leaner driver not going fast enough on an "on ramp", you'd want to get the message across pretty quickly)
Good point!
I'm really blown away at the performance of your Tesla. Stopping on a hill with snow and you made it to the top is amazing.
It’s pretty amazing the amount of control an electric motor has in those conditions
Get a RWD Model 3 and use the money to buy a set of winter tires still saves lots of $. Great video! Thanks!
Thanks for the comment. It was a fun video to make!
This is truly amazing to see a rear wheel drive car do this.
It is pretty cool 😎
Doesnt have anything to do with it being electric tho any car with good winter tyres can do this.
You obviously didn’t watch the whole video
Yeah with all that weight its easy for the tesla, whats the weight difference between the two cars?!
Yeah, the VW is close to 500 lb lighter. Weight definitely helped the Tesla more. But weight of engine was directly over it’s front wheel drive wheels.
Nothing surpasses the excitement of once being stuck then being able to move again 😅. Great video!
Thanks for the comment!
This video actually made me save some money and buy sr+ instead of long range in Norway. Thanks!! Waiting for delivery in February 2021.
Make sure you use a referral code to get your free supercharging km!
And that’s awesome, glad we could help!
Hey, wanted to hear your thoughts if you've started driving it in the snow up there
Agree, how is Norway treating your SR+?
@@RockyMountainTesla Hi, I ended up switching to the LR-AWD... Tesla here had a special low-interest rate deal that was better than all other options so I took it. took delivery on the 28th of December and been going on several mountain trips in -20 to -30c. :D
I live in Mtl and we received 15-20cm of snow today. I went up a steep hill and made to the top quite easily. I was quite happy. I drove all day on snowy streets and was quite impressed with the overall stability of the car.
Thanks for commenting!
Hello is your car rwd. I live in Mtl as well and I am worried of the days when we get heavy snow. What is the difference in cold weather.
My 3 SR+ is RWD, lots of videos on the channel about cold weather capabilities…
what winter tire do you use for your tesla?
@jerryyan4131 details in description
For a car with no gas you could say "give it some juice". Great video.
Thanks for commenting!
Thank you guys you are the best !! Purchased Tesla y 2021 RWD standard range 2 weeks ago and now I can sleep better 😀 I thought my RWD driving will be impossible in the winter and now you just proved it is better than FWD if not as good as AWD
Hope you love it!
It's always gonna be the tires on the vehicle that make the difference obviously if you have an AWD A 4X4 FWD and RWD competing with the same tires the 4x4 is gonna absolutely stomp but a 4x4 on all seasons vs a RWD with snow tires is quite competitive
@KiRiTO72987 true, but an EV with the ability to move incrementally is an added advantage.
I had a 2011 BMW 3 series RWD with snow tires and it drove much better than front wheel drives many times I saw Toyota Camry or Honda's stuck with front wheel drives and I past them like nothing.
In the case of Tesla it's even better because the weight distribution is evenly spread in the center, all you need is a set of winter tires and that's it
Yeah, depends a lot on weight distribution
@@RockyMountainTesla not just the weight distribution but the overall weight. ICE are lighter than EVs
Standard Range plus RWD : 3,627 lb
BMW 3 series: 3,589 lb
Pretty close
@@RockyMountainTesla depending on the options and engine configurations some bmw weight around 3186lb so waaaay les than an EV in the same class.
THANK YOU SO MUCH for making this video. I have a performance Model 3, and my wife wants a tesla now (obviously lol). Your video helped prove that RWD Model Y is sufficient for our needs. 🙏😁
Thanks, that’s good to hear. It’s great that they came out with the RWD Model Y SR! I hope this video helps more people too! Please share when others ask the same questions as you!
Really appreciate you guys putting this content together - that is one crazy hill, especially to stop halfway up in the snow.
Thanks for commenting. I couldn’t believe the results either!
Glad you like it. This was a fun one to make
So you think that hill was crazy, you should try driving the streets in a section of Philadelphia, called Manayunk?
Imagine snow on some city streets in San Francisco!
I live in almost Canada, and this gave me a lot of faith. I wasn't sure about the RWD Model 3. Thank you!
Glad I could help!
Have always pondered this exact question. Now I know! To see the Tesla go uphill without trouble was really something else. A fantastic video and dialogue!
Thanks, it was a fun video to make too!
This Slip start is an extra point towards considering buying this one. Looking at the hill none of the cars I had could climb it from a stop.
Yeah, it’s a very useful feature!
This was the video I needed before buying my RWD Tesla. Thanks guys
Thanks! I’m glad it helped.
The test shouldn't be only uphill, but on turns on ice and on turns on snowy conditions while passing on a highway, and you're accelerating.
Thanks for the idea, but we are deep into electrifying our home in Calgary, Alberta. No more gas soon!
This is the kind of video I've been looking for. I'm trying to figure out if RWD will do alright (with snow tires of course) in winter with the big hill I've got and this gives me more faith in the base model 3. I might still go for a used M3LR if I can, but this is really cool to see.
Glad it helped!
I used low budget studded tires on my old bmws never had an issue on icy roads or icy hills at all, could stsrt in the middle of the hill when its was almost pure ice, now in looking for the comfort of friction tires if they are worth trying😂
You can buy a lot of snow tires with the savings from the base to the LR.
@@highmarkrich That is true, but if I can find an LR used for the same price as a standard, it's kind of a no-brainer. If I find it for maybe, say, a few grand more, then it might be worth it for the fact it has fog lights and standard doesn't.
What's really frustrating for me as a potential Tesla buyer (whenever I manage that kind of money) is that there's so many options and I have to consider what year it came out, on top of that. I've been making a spreadsheet to list out what differences there are between each year of M3 and MS and I've been highlighting them red/yellow/green for how important they are and even then I think the decision is rough. It's hard for me to put a solid value on the various features and what I'd be happy with not having. The prices on the used market can be pretty insane sometimes, too. I know sometimes they're fake postings to get people on the lot, but still...
@kyleb8117 Yep, I know what you mean. I just got a new M3. The LR was 15k more. With the new battery chemistry letting the RWD charge to 100%, it was a much easier decision as my daily commuting would actually get me more range than the LR at 80%.
Great video, good to see videos like this to help make my decision
Glad it helped!
Great of you both to share your experience with the RWD. I just bought a used car Model S RWD and was wondering about how I was going to be able to drive un in the Alps next winter, which I do about every week-end to go skiing... It's my first electric car and I'm very happy about my present driving experience (in summer) but It seems I can stick to my RWD and won't have to change for a AWD finally. Thanks a lot !
Should be a similar experience in the older Model S RWD. Glad you found it useful!
I'm also a local Tesla SR+ owner. I've just begun starting to make my own videos as well! Excited to see more of your videos!
Thanks, we have lot’s more content coming too!
Totally awesome. Tesla RWD + snow tires does not equal ICE car RWD + snow tires. If people in Canada are fine with RWD, anyone in the US should be fine with RWD.
Yes, absolutely agree. Electric with better balanced chassis with RWD is better than FWD ICE.
@@RockyMountainTesla its not always the case tho
Not sure what you mean, but everyone is entitled to their opinions. Thanks for commenting.
I am just before purchasing a Y RWD. I am from near Salzburg, so driving on snow matters. Thanks for Your video, because I remember all the situations, where real wheel drive cars made on snow a traffic jam because not able to start uphill.
Thanks for commenting! I’m glad you found it useful 😎
Though I admit I may have missed it, I was disappointed that the video did not mention that winter tires were being used on this car during this test drive. However, when I scrolled down on all these comments, I saw 2 entries that admitted that they were using, in fact, snow tires. Now, I'm not saying that this is a deal breaker. I would think 4 winter tires, at least in the Northeast US, would cost in the $1500 range. That's very little compared to getting a dual motor Tesla. However, there IS the twice yearly changing of the tires and, or course, storing 4 tires all year. I just think that by conveniently omitting this snow tire fact, it makes me wonder if the people who made this video did not have some financial connection with Tesla or their local Tesla dealer. Lastly, I should admit that this was in Canada, and perhaps it's a much more common thing to have snow tires on cars, so perhaps that's why they didn't mention it. Still, somewhat weak, I would think.
Read the description of the video. Besides the fact that I get free supercharger miles from referrals and I own Tesla shares I have no connection to Tesla. Switching tires yearly is something almost everyone in Canada or northern climates does. All wheel drive does not replace the need for snow rated tires.
Happy to see it did this well, looking at a LR RWD right now. Intro made me think it would get stuck, but...anyway.
The only thing to worry about is when snow is deeper than the clearance of the car.
It was great to see a video like this. Nit many out there showing winter driving with the RWD Model 3 and maybe the only one comparing winter driving to a GTI. Ive owned a Golf, 2 GTIs, a Passat AWD and a Golf R AWD. All have been excellent in the snow but the two AWDs are the kind to never get stuck.
So glad to see that RWD SR+ can do so well.
I'd like to see this test with the dual motor model 3 vs the RWD Model 3.
Well maybe we can do that this winter ❄️!
My wife has an hour long commute each day and we’re considering the Model 3 as her daily driver. We’re mostly considering the Long Range dual motor because of the ocasional rainy/snowy day, but this video is making me reconsider. Maybe a Standard Range plus would be sufficient.
Lots of things to consider, like winter range too. Please subscribe, and check out more videos on the channel if you need more info. Thanks for commenting!
The added range will put her mind at ease on commuting. Im personally waiting for Model Y RWD long range in addition to my Cybertruck.
It might, even though efficiency is lower in winter, it’s less of a reduction when driving on freeway. I’ve had 80% efficiency in -13c driving in 80 to 90 km per hour conditions. Really depends how big the commute is... paying for battery you won’t use is a bit of waste in many ways...
Winter tires?
Definitely
Awesome. This convinced me that the issue with my MYSR performing really bad in winter is not because it's RWD but it's about the bad stock Goodyear M+S.
Yeah, snow tires make a big difference!
People seem to ignore the difference that winter tyres make more than all-wheel drive. AWD + Winter may be better but RWD + Winter is definitely better than AWD with "all season" tyres.
That might be a good video to do!
@@RockyMountainTesla Definitely. It's also obvious that electric traction (instant/adjustable) would be better than mechanical traction. It's another industry, but there are videos of heavy freight locomotives purposely slip-starting (diesel generators + electric motors). Fascinating to see what's possible with some computing.
Yeah, pretty fascinating what the technology is capable of.
Just returned a 2017 GTI and then saw this video. Other winter test videos don't show how Tesla stops and starts on a snowy hill and your video answered this question perfectly. Thanks!
Glad it helped!
Thank you guys for making this video it is pushing me in the direction of buying a Tesla asap only thing I am concerned about is the battery life in winter.
Thanks 🙏 I have done more videos on weather and cold effects on driving. At this point if you ordered a Tesla you wouldn’t be getting it until Spring. Unless you can find a used Tesla for the same price as new right now.
Wow. The Tesla was impressive. I had a lot of anxiety and doubt watching your Tesla go up the steep incline. Growing up in the 90s, my parents drove rwd German cars. Living in nyc area, we didn’t use snow tires. Any bit of snow and a slight incline, the cars would get stuck.
It’s amazing how electric power can be so much more precise! It’s a lot different from my past rwd bmw’s I drove, also in the 90’s 😀
It's the tires not the Tesla that was mostly impressing you. Tesla's low power in the snow helps but without those tires the Tesla would have never moved. That FWD car with the same tires and a good driver would have shown to everyone this was a comparison of tires mostly video. It just goes to show with the right tires even a RWD will work in some snow conditions.
Why no videos these days ?
I really liked your channel we want such more videos !
I’ll get back to it this spring!
@@RockyMountainTesla Oh Yeah!😍😍
Snow tires or all season? This will make a huge difference in understanding the performance.
Winter tires on both cars
It's been years, and I'm still laughing whenever watching this video, good job, guys.
Thanks 🙏 I still get a kick out of it watching it too 😂
Thx. So happy to see this video! I am getung mine next week and we just got some snow. I was stressed 😅
Winter tires will help!
That’s impressive for a Tesla in the snow . How does the Tesla do parked outside in winter conditions? Does it have starting issues ? I live in northeast and considering a Tesla but so far only see people in Warmer climate and parked in garage is ok but for me it’s not a real northeast winter car if it cannot function after being outside freezing temps with snow sleet etc. Thanks for sharing
It could operate ok in cold temperatures even on a daily basis. It would be better if you could also keep it plugged in under those conditions because you can get the battery preconditioned for every day. Check out my shortened video of comparing warming up the model 3 vs VW GTI after being out overnight at -18 Celsius:
ruclips.net/video/I1E91Nu8ckU/видео.html
This video settled me to get Model Y confidently after you showed how a Model 3 rear-wheel drive performs in uphill with calgary winter snow. Thanks!
What sucks is that on the Tesla dealership, I was rushing to get to this video to use your code. Unfortunately, I clicked on a different video thinking it was this one and got someone else's code. Lmao. My bad 🤣
No problem. Glad it helped!
Did you guys have the winter tires on or just the standard ones from the Tesla factory?
Winter tires for sure!
Good to know I have the same rwd also red as well!
It’s the best colour, for us at least 😎
Thanks fellas! Super helpful
Love your content!
You guys just saved me $6000. Instant subscribe. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for commenting
So overall you feel comfortable with winter driving in the RWD model...I live in Edmonton?
It’s a great winter car, reduced range, but easy to get and keep warm. Winter tires are a big help too.
In general Front wheel only is better in snow than rear wheel only, you can also wiggle the front tire to get better traction.
But only because the engine is weighting down the front end. With an EV the battery make’s for a more even weight distribution and RWD works great because the motor has way better control of torque.
@@RockyMountainTesla Front wheel only tesla(if existed) will still beat rear wheel only tesla in snow.
I guess we will need a FWD electric car to compare!
@@RockyMountainTesla You can turn the wheel all the to right or left if you really get stuck in snow. If you get stuck in a real wheel only you just gonna dig a deeper hole in the snow. I'm talking about snow on dirt not just snow on cement
Did you guys use winter tires on the Tesla 3 test?
Tracking control looked great!
Yes, Nokian Hakkalapeta R3’s on the Tesla, winter tires on the VW, not sure which Brand
Thanks for the great video. I am from northern Minnesota - snow and cold are real things here, as they are where you are at. Your video (and a couple of others) have opened the the market up for me as I had worried about the RWD in ways in which I would never worry about FWD cars.
Question: The newer RWD 3s have the LiFePo battery packs in them that are a bit heavier, but also a bit safer. They seem to suffer from cold temperature range degradation more than the Li-ion batteries but welcome charging to 100% regularly. Would you consider a newer Model 3 RWD with the different battery type?
I absolutely would consider the LFP chemistry, especially because of the daily charge to 100%. I’m not sure it’s that much worse than the long range battery efficiency in cold temps. E.g. yesterday driving about 100 km in our LR Model Y at -20C around the city, we had about 50% of rated range. When it gets this cold it’s pretty bad no matter what the battery chemistry.
Im in Chicago with vary little hills so the SR+ should be fine for me.
That’s great, thanks for commenting!
Actually most cars are REAR wheel drive in Canada. Front drive and awd are becoming more popular though.
Interesting, I know there are many sporty variants that are RWD, but didn’t know there were more RWD cars on the road. It would be fun to compare a RWD sports sedan next time. Just need a subscriber to offer :)
Fwd cars are way cheaper and easier to build compared to rwd or awd. Awd is mostly used in difficult climates. Thats why subaru only sales awd cars
Hi, question: which statement is true based on your experience and testing?
A.) RWD traction is more than enough for Canadian winter. I would buy it and buying AWD doesnt add much more value or
B.) RWD can help a tiny bit in extreme dicey winter situations (better than nothing) but i would still prefer an AWD?
I have not been stuck once in 4 winters in my SR+ RWD with snow tires, that said, my AWD Model Y is better. If I were to replace my RWD Model 3 with a Y I would easily choose the RWD Y, because I already have an AWD Y. It’s more of a budget decision than absolute need.
I live in Texas where snow is non existent so I know I should be good on stock tires when we get .1cm of snow. 🤣
Yeah, totally different conditions 😂
Wow. That’s very impressive. I have a wrangler 😂 the reason was stress about snow. But the tesla rwd doing so well, I want to buy a model Y RWD. Do u thinking can I service heavy snow and ice 🥶. +Up hill.. 😥 Bty Thanks for the video, awesome 👏
I think a RWD would do better than a 3 RWD just because clearance is better.
@@RockyMountainTesla thanks for the answer 🤗. Every winter my area got so much snow and ice 🥶 especially I’m living in up hill 😬 so, I’m really trying to figure out RWD with winter tires can do it or not 🤔 I prefer AWD but too expensive 🥲
Excellent 👌😊. I just bought my wife a Tesla model 3 rear drive. I didn't get all wheel drive because my wife is a housewife and if we get snow she stays home. I'm happy to see how well it does because you never know when you might need it. Do you have the factory tires or snow tires? We have factory hankook tires. Thank you 👍
We have winter tires, info in description. I’m not changing over the tires this winter either. Not driving the 3 much this winter as we drive the Y more often. It does get a little slippery without winter tires though.
@@RockyMountainTesla Yes I'm sure. They sell winter tires for a reason. We live in Eastern Maryland just outside of Ocean City We may be get one or two snows a winner and it doesn't even last a day. So we will stick with the factory Eco tires. Thank you that was a fun video 👍
@brianlee6849 yeah, sounds reasonable. Thanks 🙏
This was very interesting to watch. I used to have a FWD Golf, now I’ve got an AWD 3 series and I’m considering going for an EV. I kind of wanna go for an RWD EV to save money and for the better range. I keep thinking how my Golf handled our Norwegian winters…I never had any problems with it. Dunno why there is this fear of not having AWD and especially RWD.
Electric motors handle torque better so it’s practically a non issue in an EV especially with snow tires. That’s the point I was trying to show with the video. I think it has worked pretty well. Hope it helped you too!
Thanks guys!!! I'm thinking of buying Tesla and had doubts about rear drive in Ukrainian winter. Now I'm sure that I want this car and I can handle it!))))
Конечно! It sure can!
Great video, what kind of tires were on the car? That always makes the difference. Can’t imagine they were the factory ones.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3’s. The right tires definitely help!
Should it not be beneficial for it automatically go into slip start in those situations? I wonder if the average user is even aware of the option to switch modes to help climb an icy hill.
That would be a useful feature. The user interface does allow a search now, just have to know it exists from watching a video like this one!
I'm looking at getting an SR+ (3 or Y), but these road conditions were my biggest concern.
My 2nd biggest concern is lack of Superchargers to where I need to go. One route is 252 miles between Superchargers and the one I do often is 331 miles between Superchargers. Luckily 2 additional Superchargers are being added on each route. I should be good with an SR+ after that.
That’s good news, because 331 miles is too long a stretch for even the long range model 3 or Y at highway speeds.
95% of the Tesla owners only needs the mobile charger, why do you need a Supercharger?
Road trips
7:25 he should definitely do that again is all about the challenge lol
Thanks for commenting! I agree, I would do it again, after COVID. :)
really appreciated your video. Im thinking to get a model 3 LR. but what you think in deep snow since i m in Calgary too. also if i leave my car for ten hours outside when it is -30c or colder, would it be a problem ???
Sorry I didn’t get back to you earlier. Winter tires make a big difference. A Long Range is AWD, so better in deeper snow, but clearance is king, and a Model Y AWD will always do better in deeper snow. I don’t really worry too much about cold weather driving at -30, and our garage is about -15c. I always warm it up before driving though.
I don’t know what the hell slip start is but apparently it worked. Also did you have snow tires on the Tesla?
Slip start is a setting that allows the wheels to spin a little bit. Winter tire info in the description.
@@RockyMountainTeslaThanks. So they’re winter tires. My problem is I live in a place where it only snows maybe 5-6 times a year, so not often enough to justify snow tires but just often enough to have to consider snow and possibly get caught in it. Thanks for the video.
@TheNormal256 glad it was helpful!
Are those all season tires or winter tires?
Nokian Hakka R3’s
You got me sold on a Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus..
I'll get this one instead of the Long Range when I move there to Canada 🍁 ❤️👍
Glad I could help you make a decision!
just got mine this weekend, thanks for guys like you helping build my confidence!
That’s great! Hope you love it!
A set of winter tires and you will beat all the front wheel drives.
Time for winter tires again already here in YYC!
Thanks for the awesome video, I was always wondering about how a rwd tesla would handle snow situation because of the more evenly distributed weight and the traction control. So I might go and get the rwd Model 3 then if I don't end up going with the ID4, I always find the awd version too expensive, the rwd is some what of an acceptable price.
It helps that electricity is generally cheaper than gas too. Glad the video helped!
M3 RWD 2023
Right tire on wet grass,
Left tire on concrete,
In reverse, it left a huge muddy rut dragging the Right tire through the wet grass 😞
It seems like a major ESC software problem.
Where it should allow the right tire to just roll.
That is unfortunate!
Thank you guys, exactly what I was looking for. Great video.
Glad it was helpful!
Good job, Canucks!
😃 thanks!
As someone driving in possibly the worst city for ice and snow = Quebec city : I found it odd that you were gunning it which messes the static vs dynamic traction. I've seen many a time where someone would try to make the wheels go as fast as possible only to start swaying & eventual start sliding backwards. I took the same route with minimal power and was able to make it all the way. Even with a Tesla I would avoid flooring it to get as much low-speed grip as I can .. but since I own one now -- I'll be able to confirm / infirm this soon ;- )
The electric motors are actually not applying any more force than necessary unless you change the settings to slip start which will apply some wheel spin. Congratulations on the new car!
@@RockyMountainTesla would you then consider chill rather than standard mode ? Thanks - so far (regardless of all the criticism it attracts) I'm still loving it -- and that is after extensive experience with my wife's Soul-EV and my own e-Golf (which was awesome) just short on autonomy.
-> the defrosting windshield and the pivoting-logo backing-up camera was amazing.
For your 1st couple weeks chill is good. Then once used to all the extra power I don’t find there to be enough slippage to drive in chill.
Thank you guys for this awsome video.
I'm Calgarian too and been thinking of buying a Model 3 Standard Range, but I wonder how it would perform in -36C weather and specially when it has been parked outside overnight.
You’re welcome. Can you keep it plugged in? That will keep the Battery Management System (BMS) operational and keeping the battery as warm as it needs to be. Also a level 2 outlet (208v/240v) would be better than just a regular wall outlet. The rest is just the regular wear you get from always parking outside.
You guys doing a video of RWD Tesla in deep snow like 6 inches and roads unplowed?
Interesting idea 💡. Timing of that can be tricky. Basically once you get snow deeper than the car clearance you will get stuck too. In 3 years I haven’t got stuck yet though in the Model 3. My Model Y LR AWD makes it all look easy!
Not really same as ice rear wheel either as weight distribution is 50/50 vs 60/40. Bit definitely impressed and makes me think I may get just the red here in erie pa. I drove a red pickup here for 3 years as long as you get good snows should be good.
The winter tires definitely help. Glad the video was helpful!
Thank you, I never have a car yet and plan to buy model 3, and in my place have winter and summer so I afraid of rwd, and I think I have to buy awd-longrange which will cost higher for Winter. But after you video I will choose rwd as I need to save money.
btw in my country the model 3 rwd goes with All season tires, is it good for Winter or I have to change Winter tires?
Glad it helped!
Unreal traction control in that thing, this is the reason I have never looked into this car
It’s electric motor control, beats an internal combustion engine vehicle any day
M3 sr+ is a horrible winter car. My 3rd winter with mine and I won’t change my mind. Tonight I could not reach my house again at the top of à not so steep hill in snowy conditions. All my neighbours cars made it. Looking forward to selling it and get the vw id4 I ordered.
Winter tires?
Absolutely. Mandatory in Quebec. Michelin XIce3
Our Model Y is much better with AWD, but I never experienced what you did in the model 3 SR+. I also have Nokian Hakka R3’s. The hill in the video is a 15-18% grade. I’m sure the ID4 will be great with AWD!
Great video.
Thanks 🙏
1:54 why is there a cut? did the Telsa not manage to hill start on the first try?
We started on the incline to make it harder.
without having the EXACT same tires on both cars...this test is non-valid. For all I know that VW has summer tires on.... Impressive Tesla RWD climb tho....never thought it would go up. Its exactly what i was looking for. Thanks for the video
Fair enough! Hard to do a perfect comparison but at least know the VW had good winter tires on.
If I had not seen this test I would never have believed it. Well done guys.
Greetings from Cumbria in the U.K.
Thanks 🙏 . We didn’t know what the results were going to be either!
That was very entertaining and informative… great job!
🙏
All season tires on the Tesla ?
Winter tires, details in description.
Welp, there goes all my anxiety about my RWD Model 3 this winter lol
Cool 😎
Did you guys have snow tires?
Yes
What tires do you have on?
Updated description, asked so many times 😂. Nokian Hakka R3’s. Don’t forget to subscribe!
pretty awesome! what kind of tires did you have?
Nokian Hakka R3’s
19th Street SW is OG Rollercoaster Hill 😁
Ya man so crazy. Gets that zero G feeling
We will have to try that one too!
This is one of the best model 3 videos guys, great job. I live in MA and have this car on order. We also have a XC-90 and a X5, but I will use the Tesla around town. Cheers Canadian bros.
Thanks Bill! It is one of our favourites we worked on together, and turns out to be the most popular too 😎
How deep was the snow on the hill you went up with slip start?
Ice more than snow
Did the tesla have winter tires on?
Yes 👍🏼
It's all about the tires. Good winter tires are a lifesaver.
Yes they are!
Haha. That’s what that extra trunk space is for under the panel. You fill it with sand in the winter 😂 still very impressive that this does so well without studs. I love AWD for the front wheel pull even just when steering, but this is reassuring to see given BC doesn’t usually get freeeezing and snowy like AB.
I’d expect the VW has narrower tires too. Very interesting.
Our AWD Model Y is amazing, but still get by just fine in winter with the RWD Model 3 with the winter tires, even 3 seasons in, just need to find the time to get the tire change done this year!
Is this with winter tires?
Yes, Nokian Hakka R3’s
Really nice and instructing tests drive!
Greating from French Alps.
Thanks, I’m glad you found it useful!
Hey Guys, this was a really informative video!!!
Thanks 🙏
I grew up in Rochester NY with plenty of snow and hills, live in Denver now and agree with everything said but add the secret to successful winter driving is experience, drive in snow all winter and you will get pretty good at it, occasional storms (like here) you might be stuck and sliding or worse. I’d sure like to know how slip start works since there is no propulsion in the front and no way to alter weight distribution. Snow tires with studs-absolutely.
must be a way to lock the rear differential and provide power to both wheels
Nokian Hakka R3’s helped, electric motors are pretty awesome too!
Hey, can you give me the brand or any link for the phone holder which you mounted your phone to sunroof
It’s the Dellin Fat Gecko Triple, you also need an attachment that holds the phone:
Delkin DDMNT-TRIPLE Fat Gecko... www.amazon.ca/dp/B00A86MMY8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Check out the ULANZI tripod mounts for phones.
@@RockyMountainTesla Thank you for your answer mate :)
Just started the video. Stock tyres right?
More information in the description.
Keep doing what you are doing!!
Thanks, still trying to!
When tesla es adding the heat pump to the model 3?
I’ve heard new owners already have the modified frunk and I have heard reports that the Chinese model 3 is already reporting it will be receiving the Octovalve and heat pump. So soon is the only thing I could guess...
Slip Start mode FTW!
Indeed!