Bioweapon Defense Mode

Californian Tesla Models X and S owners^[1] are rejoicing at
their choice of cars right now. These models come with an air
filtration feature called the ‘Bioweapon Defense Mode,’ which is
proving very useful during the ongoing wildfires^[2]
in the Western U.S. State. 

Tesla placed a lot of importance on the Model X, in particular.
The company reduces the vehicle’s outside air pollution impact with
its electric system, and it also reduces air pollution in the car
itself. 

Boasting a HEPA air filter system, Tesla states that it is
10 times bigger than regular cars’ air filtering
systems. 

RELATED: TESLA OFFERS FREE,
UNLIMITED SUPERCHARGER USE FOR NEW MODEL S, MODEL X
ORDERS^[3]

Bioweapon Defense Mode

Tesla states that when it is working at full capacity, the Tesla
Model X’s Bioweapon Defense Mode is “100 times^[4] more effective than
premium automotive filters.”

Seemingly, the HEPA^[5]
air filter system removes “99.97%^[6] of fine
particulate matter and gaseous pollutants, as well as bacteria,
viruses, pollen, and mold spores.”

 

The feature was later added to the Model S, enabling more people
to benefit^[7]
from the fresh air while they’re in their vehicles — it’s not only
useful for regular air pollution but also unforeseen wildfires as
well. 

Californian wildfires

California^[8]
has its fair share of wildfires, which can, unfortunately, be
utterly devastating at times. As these fires rage on, they release
dangerous levels of smoke and unbreathable air, sometimes resulting
in fatalities.  

As a state, California^[9]
is one of the leading ones for Tesla ownership. This may prove to
be beneficial not only for the environment but for residents
fleeing these fires. 

It’s well worth the cost. My family used
Bioweapon Defense Mode when air quality was reduced from the wild
fires in Northern California. You get to a point where you don’t
smell the smoke, then spend 10-15 minutes in a Tesla with BWD mode,
then step outside and smell it again.

Last year, Tesla CEO Elon Musk stated^[11] that the “Bioweapon
Defense Mode could be useful to escape some areas where the air
quality is extremely bad,” — when there are wildfires. 

Musk was not wrong. 

Tesla owners^[12] have been posting
videos on Twitter and online, as their Teslas drive through some
areas with black smoke, and raging fires.

Luckily for them, they have the air filter feature that is
helping them to breathe good quality air as they make their way
through these areas. 

Thank you @elonmusk and
@Tesla for helping
us with breathing issues during the fires today in Los Angeles due
to bad air quality. Bioweapon defense mode is a life saver.
pic.twitter.com/xDU9g0EcT2^[13][14][15]

Of course, this does not mean Tesla Models S and X owners should
be driving through fires and putting themselves at risk.

However, if they are in areas where it’s still safe to drive
through and escape the air pollution and fires, all the while
breathing good air, then this feature is proving invaluable to
them. 

(H/T to Electrek.co^[17])