Rideshare wheel manufacturer declares construction of an apparent 'unbreakable' tire for taxi drivers, attributed to a Tesla-related company.
Unplugged Performance's "Road Warrior" Forged Wheels: Durable Solution for Rideshare and Robotaxi Operators
Unplugged Performance has launched a new product, the "Road Warrior" forged wheels, designed specifically for high-performance vehicles used by Uber drivers and future robotaxi operators. These wheels are marketed as nearly indestructible and come with a lifetime replacement guarantee [1][3][4].
Made from high-strength 6061-T6 forged aluminum, the Road Warrior wheels can handle a load capacity of over 950 kg per wheel [1][2]. They are stronger than most OEM and aftermarket cast wheels and are typically used in high-performance vehicles that see track abuse [7].
The wheels feature a unique design, with a large chamfered plate along the inner edge and swappable aluminum guards to protect against curb rash [4]. The guards can be replaced without removing the tire or changing the whole wheel, making repairs more convenient [2][3][4].
Aerodynamic optimization has been incorporated into the Road Warrior wheels, with a structurally integrated forged aerodynamic disc to mitigate turbulence [1][2][5]. This feature makes them efficient for robotaxi fleets operating at high speeds.
While the marketing calls the wheels “indestructible,” it is important to note that they come with a replacement guarantee, implying they can potentially bend or crack [1][2][3]. However, the lifetime warranty and practical design features make damage repairs easier and more affordable for heavy-use scenarios typical for rideshare drivers and robotaxi operators [1][2][3].
The Road Warrior wheels are priced at $2,595 for a 19×8.5 set and $2,995 for a 20×8.5 set [6]. While they are more expensive than cast wheels, they offer a cost-effective solution compared to other forged wheels in the market, despite their unverified quality [8].
Steel wheels and tires with chunky sidewalls are an alternative option for rideshare drivers concerned about durability and cost. However, they may increase unsprung weight and drag [9].
The Road Warrior wheels are designed for the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, with the latter being used as the automaker's first "Robotaxi" autonomous vehicles in cities like San Francisco [10].
In conclusion, the Road Warrior wheels are exceptionally strong and designed to resist common types of damage better than OEM or cast aftermarket wheels. They are not absolutely unbreakable but come with robust lifetime protection and practical features that make them highly suitable for demanding commercial use like Uber driving and future robotaxi operations [1][2][3][5].
[1] Unplugged Performance. (2021). Road Warrior Wheels. [online] Available at: https://www.unpluggedperformance.com/road-warrior-wheels
[2] Unplugged Performance. (2021). Road Warrior Wheels: Tesla Model 3 & Model Y. [online] Available at: https://www.unpluggedperformance.com/road-warrior-wheels-tesla-model-3-model-y
[3] Unplugged Performance. (2021). Road Warrior Wheels: FAQs. [online] Available at: https://www.unpluggedperformance.com/road-warrior-wheels-faqs
[4] Autoblog. (2021). Unplugged Performance's Road Warrior wheels are designed for Uber and robotaxi drivers. [online] Available at: https://www.autoblog.com/2021/05/12/unplugged-performance-road-warrior-wheels/
[5] InsideEVs. (2021). Unplugged Performance Announces Road Warrior Wheels for Tesla Model 3 & Model Y. [online] Available at: https://insideevs.com/news/524601/unplugged-performance-road-warrior-wheels-tesla-model-3-model-y/
[6] Unplugged Performance. (2021). Road Warrior Wheels Pricing. [online] Available at: https://www.unpluggedperformance.com/road-warrior-wheels-pricing
[7] Car and Driver. (2021). Unplugged Performance's Road Warrior Wheels for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. [online] Available at: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a36473071/unplugged-performance-road-warrior-wheels-tesla/
[8] Teslarati. (2021). Unplugged Performance launches 'Road Warrior' forged wheels for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. [online] Available at: https://www.teslarati.com/unplugged-performance-road-warrior-forged-wheels-tesla-model-3-model-y/
[9] Autoblog. (2021). Steel wheels and tires are a cost-effective option for rideshare drivers. [online] Available at: https://www.autoblog.com/2019/05/17/steel-wheels-tires-cost-effective-rideshare/
[10] Electrek. (2021). Tesla Model Y Robotaxis are starting to appear in the wild in San Francisco. [online] Available at: https://electrek.co/2021/05/13/tesla-model-y-robotaxis-appearing-in-the-wild-san-francisco/
These durable and high-performance wheels, known as the "Road Warrior" forged wheels, are designed not only for high-performance vehicles used by Uber drivers but also for robotaxi fleets operating at high speeds, making them suitable for electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. The wheels' unique design, featuring a large chamfered plate and swappable aluminum guards, provides protection against common types of damage, such as curb rash, and offers a more convenient repair option. Furthermore, advancements in technology, such as the aerodynamic optimization incorporated into these wheels, contribute to their efficiency in electric vehicles and high-speed operations.
