Tesla with a Rotary

I was just scrolling through car forums the other day, and this wild thought popped into my head: what if a Tesla had a rotary engine? I know, I know – it sounds absolutely bonkers, right? Teslas are all about electric power, silence, and instant torque. Rotary engines, on the other hand, are famous for their unique, high-revving scream and distinctive exhaust note, not to mention their compact size for their power output. But staying true to the UGC style, let's explore this fantasy together! My initial thought was purely about the sound. As much as I love the instant, silent acceleration of an EV, there’s a part of me that misses the mechanical symphony of an internal combustion engine. Imagine pulling up in a Tesla Model S, sleek and futuristic, but then it lets out that unmistakable Wankel wail as you accelerate. It would definitely turn heads! Beyond just the auditory experience, I started thinking about practicality. Could a small rotary engine serve as a range extender for a Tesla? Picture those long road trips where charging stations might be sparse. A compact, efficient rotary generator kicking in when the battery gets low could be a game-changer, offering the best of both worlds: daily electric driving and gasoline backup for extended journeys. Of course, I’m not an automotive engineer, but even I can recognize the massive hurdles. First, packaging: where would you even put a rotary engine in a car designed purely for electric propulsion? Teslas have huge battery packs taking up most of the floorpan. Then there’s the fuel tank, exhaust system, cooling, and all the complexities of integrating an ICE with an EV powertrain. It wouldn't just be slapping an engine in; you'd need sophisticated control systems to manage power delivery, regeneration, and the engine's operation. And let’s not forget the philosophical clash – Tesla's mission is to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy. Adding a gasoline-powered engine, even as a range extender, goes against that core philosophy. It would be like putting a gas stove in a fully solar-powered house! But that's the fun part of these 'what if' scenarios, isn't it? It pushes the boundaries of what we think is possible. Maybe it's not about a full-blown combustion engine for primary power, but rather a tiny, super-efficient rotary unit purely for charging the battery on the go, similar to what BMW explored with the i3 REx. The Wankel engine's compact size and relatively smooth operation might make it a more appealing option than a traditional piston engine for such a role. It's a concept that sparks conversation, mixing the cutting-edge of EV technology with a beloved, albeit unconventional, ICE design. While likely never to happen in a production Tesla, it's a fun thought experiment for any car enthusiast who appreciates both innovation and a good engine note. What are your thoughts? Would you ever consider a 'Tesla-Wankel' hybrid?