Tesla has released a new video today to demonstrate the effectiveness of one of their most underrated features – Bioweapon Defense Mode.
The feature has been available in the flagship Model S and Model X since 2016, and only recently added to the Model Y last year.
The advanced filtration system uses hospital-grade HEPA filters to protect the occupants inside the cabin from both everyday allergens and also bacteria and pollution.
To show just how effective the HEPA filter is, some Tesla engineers put a Model Y inside a large plastic bubble next a BMW SUV without one.
To simulate the pollution, the team set off a red smoke grenade inside the bubble. One engineer, David, was so confident in the system that he sat in the Model Y while the bubble was overcome with red smoke.
With cameras inside each car, it is clear to see just how effective Bioweapon Defense Mode is, removing 99.97% of airborne particulate.
When it was all said and done, the cabin of the BMW was filled with smoke, while the engineer inside the Model Y reported no particulate entering the cabin.
Once the smoke had dissipated, the frunk of the Model Y was covered in red dust, and both the activated carbon filters and HEPA filters were also a bright red colour.
“By positively pressurizing your cabin with Bioweapon Defense Mode, we prevent pollutants from leaking in as you drive, instead filtering all air through the HEPA and gas media filter. Every new Model Y, S and X comes standard with a HEPA filter and Bioweapon Defense Mode,” Tesla says.
You can watch the full video below.