Are Electronics Parts in Tesla Automotive Grade?

The automotive industry is renowned for its stringent standards and rigorous testing processes, ensuring that components can withstand diverse environmental conditions. One of the primary grades used in automotive applications is automotive grade, characterized by its ability to operate under a wide range of temperatures and stress conditions. This article explores whether the electronics parts used in Tesla vehicles meet the stringent standards of automotive grade components.

Understanding Automotive Grade Parts

Automotive grade parts are specifically designed and manufactured to meet the demands of the automotive industry. These components are tested rigorously to ensure they can handle the extreme conditions encountered in vehicular applications. Let's delve into the common grades and their temperature ranges:

Common Grades and Their Temperature Ranges

Commercial: 0°C to 70°C Industrial: 40°C to 85°C Automotive: 40°C to 125°C Extended: 40°C to 125°C Military: 55°C to 125°C

Automotive grade parts, specifically tailored for automotive applications, are designed to operate under common driving conditions, including underhood temperatures. Underhood temperatures can be significantly higher, particularly in engines with internal combustion. This is primarily due to the heated components such as the radiator, engine block, and exhaust manifold, which can reach temperatures well above the boiling point of water.

Why Tesla Uses Industrial Grade Parts?

When it comes to the electronics used in Tesla vehicles, there is a belief that industrial grade parts are sufficient. This is because Tesla does not rely on the same heat sources as traditional internal combustion engines. The absence of these engines means that components can be subjected to lower temperatures, similar to those seen in industrial applications.

Tesla engineers might find industrial grade components suitable for their vehicles due to the following reasons:

The temperature ranges in Tesla's underbody and internal compartments can be significantly lower than those in traditional combustion engines. Modern electronics are designed to handle a wide range of environmental conditions, making them more resilient than older industrial components. The cooling systems in Tesla vehicles, such as the high-performance liquid cooling system, help to maintain optimal temperatures even in extreme conditions.

Example: Industrial Grade Components in Oil Field Instrumenation – I have extensive experience with industrial grade components used in oil field instrumentation. These components are extensively tested and designed to withstand the extreme heat and harsh conditions found in baking desert environments. The design and manufacturing processes are similar to those used in automotive parts, but the conditions are often even more severe.

Conclusion

The electronics parts used in Tesla vehicles are indeed designed and tested to meet the demands of automotive grade components. However, the specific temperature ranges required for automotive applications are generally higher than what is typically found in Tesla vehicles. This is due to the absence of internal combustion engines and the efficient cooling systems in Tesla vehicles. For those interested in more detailed information, take a look at Rich Rebuilds on YouTube, who has informative tear-down videos on Tesla cars.