If you’re considering an electric vehicle, you’ve probably come across the Model Y by Tesla. It’s a great car, and there are two different wheel options: the Gemini wheels and the Induction wheels.
If you’re looking for a good-looking wheel with better ground clearance, the Model Y Induction wheel is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a cheaper wheel that provides a smoother ride, the Model Y Gemini wheel is the better option.
The rest of this article will describe the features of the Model Y Gemini and Induction wheels in detail. That way you will have a good idea of which to choose between Gemini Wheels vs Induction Wheels. Read on for more information on these and their pros and cons.
- An Overview of Model Y Gemini Wheels
- An Overview of Model Y Induction Wheels
- How Much Do Tesla Model Y Wheels Cost?
- Model Y Gemini vs Induction Wheels: Pros and Cons
- 4 Pros of Model Y Gemini Wheels
- 2 Cons of Model Y Gemini Wheels
- 2 Pros of Model Y Induction Wheels
- 4 Cons of Model Y Induction Wheels
- Model Y Gemini vs. Induction Wheels: The Verdict
- What Are Tesla Induction Wheels?
- Why Are They Called Induction Wheels?
An Overview of Model Y Gemini Wheels
The Tesla Model Y Gemini wheels are a new alloy wheel design released in 2019. They are available as a standard option on the Tesla Model Y Long-Range variant.
The Gemini wheels are 19 inches (48 centimeters) in diameter and come with aerodynamic caps. They are also available in several colors, including white, black, and silver. The following table summarizes the critical dimensions of the Model Y Gemini Wheels:
| Dimension | Length/ Units |
| Sidewall | 4.52 in. (11.5 cm) |
| Interior Diameter | 19 in. (48 cm) |
| External Diameter | 28.04 in. (71 cm) |
| Tread Width | 255 mm (10 in.) |
| Sidewall Ratio | 45 |
So, how do these wheel dimensions affect driving? Let’s analyze them in detail:
- 4.52-inch (115 cm) sidewall: This dimension is essential because it affects ride quality. The higher the sidewall, the more comfortable the ride will be.
- 19-inch (48 cm) interior diameter: This is a standard size for alloy wheels. It’s not too small or too large, and it should fit most vehicles.
- 28.04-inch (71 cm) external diameter: The diameter of the wheel affects your vehicle’s performance. Larger wheels are heavier and require more power to turn. However, they provide more stability at high speeds.
- 255 mm (10-inch) tread width: This dimension affects rolling resistance and grip. A wider tread width provides more grip and rolling resistance. The less rolling resistance you have, the more range you’ll get from your battery.
- 45 sidewall ratio: This dimension is crucial since it affects ride comfort. A higher sidewall ratio on your wheels means a softer ride.
This video describes the features of the Model Y Gemini wheels in detail:
The Bottom Line: The Gemini wheels are a good option if you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish ride. They provide good performance and don’t sacrifice too much range or handling.
An Overview of Model Y Induction Wheels
The Tesla Model Y Induction wheels are a more expensive option, but they come with several upgrades that may be worth the investment.
The Induction wheels are 20 inches (51 centimeters) in diameter and come in several colors, including black and silver. The table below summarizes the critical dimensions of the Model Y Induction wheels:
| Dimension | Length/ Units |
| Sidewall | 4.02 in. (10 cm) |
| Interior Diameter | 20 in. (51 cm) |
| External Diameter | 28.03 in. (71 cm) |
| Tread Width | 255 mm (10 in.) |
| Sidewall Ratio | 42 |
From the numbers above, it’s evident that except for the tread width and inner diameter, the remaining dimensions of the Model Y Induction wheels are smaller than the Gemini wheels. Here’s what they mean:
- 4.02-inch (10 cm) sidewall: The Model Y Induction wheel’s smaller sidewall means that it will provide a harsher ride.
- 20-inch (51 cm) interior diameter: This is bigger than the Gemini wheel, making the Induction wheel a better choice for overcoming larger obstacles. Besides, the bigger diameter means better traction, stability, and handling.
- 28.03-inch (71 cm) external diameter: Although this is smaller than the Gemini wheel, the difference is negligible, so the Induction wheel’s bigger inner diameter gives it an edge over the Gemini wheel.
- 255 mm (10-inch) tread width: This tread width is the same as that of the Gemini wheel. Therefore, the Induction wheel provides the same grip and rolling resistance level as the Gemini.
- 40 sidewall ratio: This is smaller than the Gemini wheel, meaning the ride will be harsher.
The Bottom Line: The Model Y Induction wheel is a good choice if you’re looking for an upgraded wheel with a bigger diameter. Like the Gemini, this wheel doesn’t sacrifice too much range or handling.
By the way, I wrote a somewhat related article to this one called: “Tesla Aero Wheels vs. Sport Wheels Compared“. This might interest you, so check it out when you’re done reading.
How Much Do Tesla Model Y Wheels Cost?
If you order the Model Y or Model Y Long Range, you’ll get the Gemini Wheels included. The larger Tesla Induction wheels cost $2000 extra.
Note that for the Performance models, you get Überturbine Wheels included with your vehicle.
Of course, you could always add different aftermarket wheels when you receive your Tesla. But if Tesla recommends these wheels, there must be a reason for it!
Model Y Gemini vs Induction Wheels: Pros and Cons
So which should you choose – Induction or Gemini? Before choosing which of the two wheels is better, let’s look at their pros and cons. This will help determine which wheel will serve you best.
The following table compares the two:
| Model Y Gemini Wheels | Model Y Induction Wheels | |
| Pros | Cheaper Provide more range Offer a smoother ride Removable wheel covers | More aesthetically appealing Better ground clearance |
| Cons | Less aesthetic appeal Less ground clearance | Harsher ride Less range Expensive Fixed wheel covers |
4 Pros of Model Y Gemini Wheels
Tesla’s Model Y Gemini Wheels have several pros when compared to Induction wheels. They are explained in more detail below.
1. Tesla Model Y Gemini Wheels Are Cheaper to Purchase
The Model Y Gemini wheels are more affordable than the Model Y Induction wheels. They are smaller; hence, the production costs are lower. Besides, smaller wheels mean smaller tires, which are also cheaper.
2. Tesla Model Y Gemini Wheels Provide Better Range
The aerodynamic caps on the Gemini wheels create a more streamlined shape for the air to flow around. This reduces the drag, improving the range of your car.
That is why the Geminis come standard on the long-range vehicle.
3. Tesla Model Y Gemini Wheels Offer a Smoother Ride
The higher sidewall ratio of the Gemini wheels provides a softer ride.
4. Tesla Model Y Gemini Wheels Has Removable Wheel Covers
The wheel covers are a nice touch that gives your car a more finished look. They’re easy to remove for cleaning or customization.
I also wrote a related article and revealed the Best Tesla Model 3 Replacement Tires. Check it out!
2 Cons of Model Y Gemini Wheels
The Tesla Gemini wheels do have a couple of cons as well.
1. Tesla Model Y Gemini Wheels Have Less Aesthetic Appeal
Most people find the Gemini wheels less attractive. This makes them a poor choice if you’re looking for style.
2. Tesla Model Y Gemini Wheels Have Less Ground Clearance
The Gemini wheels have a lower ride height than the Model Y Induction wheel; hence, they may not overcome extra large obstacles.
2 Pros of Model Y Induction Wheels
The Inductions have some pros when compared to the Gemini wheels.
1. Tesla Model Y Induction Wheels Are More Aesthetically Appealing
The Model Y Induction wheels have a more stylish design than the Gemini wheels. Because of that, they are a good choice if you’re looking for a good-looking wheel.
2. Tesla Model Y Induction Wheels Have Better Ground Clearance
The Induction wheels have a higher ride height than the Gemini wheels, meaning they can overcome larger obstacles.
However, as you’ll see below, the Induction Wheels have more cons than the Gemini wheels.
4 Cons of Model Y Induction Wheels
1. Tesla Model Y Induction Wheels Give a Harsher Ride
The smaller sidewall ratio of the Induction wheel means a rougher ride.
2. Tesla Model Y Induction Wheels Provide Less Range
The Model Y Induction wheels do not have aerodynamic caps, meaning they have less drag and provide less range than the Gemini wheels.
3. Tesla Model Y Induction Wheels Are More Expensive
The Model Y Induction wheels are pricier than the Gemini wheels. This could be due to their larger size, implying higher production costs.
4. Tesla Model Y Induction Wheels Have Fixed Wheel Covers
The Induction wheel comes with fixed wheel covers, whereas the Gemini wheel has removable wheel covers. This means that the Induction wheel is less customizable.
You can use this online Tesla tire calculator to find how long any Tesla Model tire will last. You can also estimate the number of miles left on your current set and how many days you have until they need to be swapped out for new ones. If that is the case, you can also find the price for any set of Tesla tires by selecting the appropriate tires. Have fun!
Model Y Gemini vs. Induction Wheels: The Verdict
If you’re looking for affordable and comfortable wheels with an impressive driving range, pick the Model Y Gemini wheels. However, choose the Model Y Induction wheels if you need stylish wheels with better ground clearance and traction. Ultimately, it comes down to what you value most in a wheel.
That being said, choosing the right wheel for your vehicle is essential. Here are a few guidelines that may help if you’re not sure which one is right for you:
- The size of the wheel should correspond with the size of your vehicle. A small car should have small wheels, and a large truck should have large wheels.
- The width of the wheel is also important. It should be proportional to the width of your vehicle. A wide wheel on a narrow car will look out of place, and a narrow wheel on a wide truck will not perform as well.
- The type of wheel should be appropriate for the driving you’ll be doing. There are different types of wheels for different types of driving. If you do a lot of off-road driving, you’ll need a different kind of wheel than if you’ll only be driving on the highway.
- Consider the climate in which you live. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of snow, you’ll need a wheel that can handle the snow and ice. So ensure you research before choosing a particular wheel.
- Ask for a warranty. Many companies offer warranties on their wheels, so be sure to ask about this before you make your purchase. This can give you some peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong with your wheel, you’ll be able to get it fixed or replaced.
What Are Tesla Induction Wheels?
Tesla’s Induction wheels are an upgraded wheel from the standard Gemini wheel that Tesla Model Y comes with. They cost $2000 more than the standard wheels and are larger.
Why Are They Called Induction Wheels?
The name “Induction Wheels” has nothing to do with the process of induction. At least, the wheels are not involved in induction when a Tesla drives.
However, the name might have been chosen to refer to the induction that happens in electric motors.
Induction is a process where you can create an electric current in a wire by moving a magnet near it or by changing the magnetic field around it. This is called electromagnetic induction.
Although induction is not directly connected to wheels, it is used in many things that have wheels. One example is electric motors. Electric motors are found in vehicles like cars, bicycles, and scooters. They use induction to convert electricity into power that makes the wheels turn and moves the vehicle forward.
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