A Tesla owner in China has gone viral after modifying his Model Y to run on gasoline—yes, really. The reason? He wanted “range security” while road-tripping through one of the world’s most remote regions—the route to Mount Everest!
While Tesla offers no range extender options, this daring driver wasn’t taking any chances with rural Tibet’s barren EV charging map. So he strapped a gasoline generator to the rear of his Model Y, turning the electric SUV into a makeshift hybrid.
Why Did He Do It?
The Tesla owner, known online as @Xiaomo, was heading for the Everest viewing platform in Lazi County, with plans to continue across uninhabited Tibetan lands. Since charging stations are virtually non-existent there, Xiaomo had one goal: don’t get stranded.
So, he bought a generator for ¥2,800 ($390) and fueled it up with gas that cost about 22 cents per mile—more than electricity in China, but totally worth it when the alternative is freezing on the mountainside with a dead EV.
⚡ Does It Work?
Surprisingly, yes—at 17,400 ft (5,300 meters) above sea level, the little gas generator still managed to produce 3 kW of power, enough to add about 12 miles (19 km) of range per hour while stationary.
But there’s a catch—it’s not a true range extender. The generator can’t charge the Tesla while it’s moving, meaning it only works during stops. Still, it’s better than nothing, especially when survival is more important than convenience.
Is Tesla Missing Out?
Tesla has no plans for range extenders, even though range anxiety remains a big concern—especially for adventurers like Xiaomo. His innovation proves that EV owners are getting creative, and maybe, just maybe, Tesla should take notes.
He’s not alone either. Another Tesla owner once installed a turbo-diesel engine in his Model S, showing that DIY hybrid mods may be more popular than we think.
Conclusion
This daring Tesla owner’s hack isn’t just a DIY stunt—it’s a bold reminder that EV innovation doesn’t always come from the factory floor. As electric vehicles push into uncharted territories, owners are finding clever, sometimes crazy ways to beat range anxiety. Whether it’s scaling Everest or surviving the backroads of Tibet, this gas-powered twist shows that when it comes to EV travel, creativity might just be your best charging station.
image source https://www.carscoops.com/2025/05/tesla-owner-hacks-model-y-to-charge-on-gas
