One problem that many first-time EV owners run into is maintenance.
So do electric vehicles require special tires, and if so, how are they different?
Do EVs Need Different Tires?
Electric vehicles behave differently from traditional vehicles.
They are not only significantly heavier, but they also accelerate with muchhigher levels of torque.
Tires designed for electric vehicles are now widely available and have a range of features that increase EV performance.
What Happens if You Use Standard Tires on an EV?
It’s possible to install standard tires on an electric vehicle, but it isn’t recommended.
What’s Different About EV Tires?
Electric vehicle tires are designed to handle the unique requirements that EVs place on them.
Here are the primary differences between electric vehicle tires and standard tires.
EV Tires Can Withstand Added Weight
Electric vehicles are heavier than traditional vehicles.
This is largely down to the battery, which can weigh up to 1,000 pounds on its own.
EV tires are designed to offer better structural support to account for the added weight.
EV Tires Can Withstand Added Torque
Electric vehicles have more torque than traditional vehicles.
If you’ve driven an EV, you’ve probably noticed how quickly it accelerates.
to make it avoid slipping, EV tires need to offer higher levels of traction.
This is typically achieved using very wide central rib patterns.
Standard tires aren’t designed this way because the engine drowns out any sound that they make.
EV Tires Can Increase Range
Electric vehicle tires have a different shape from standard tires.
They tend to be both taller and narrower (but they’re still circles!).
EV Tires Offer Higher Durability
Electric vehicles place additional stress on tires.
The combination of added weight and torque means that tires tend to wear out faster.
The tires designed for use in electric vehicles are better suited to this problem.
They tend to be built with materials such as high-loading resin that prevents them from breaking down as fast.
While EV tires are sometimes more expensive, they’re often worth paying for.
Are EV Tires More Expensive Than Standard Tires?
Electric vehicle tires are more expensive because they need to have higher durability.
Should You Buy Original Equipment Tires for Your EV?
The tires that come with an electric vehicle are often carefully chosen to meet their specific requirements.
EV manufacturers typically invest a lot of money in this process.
For example, some EV tires are better than others at driving in cold conditions.
EV Tires Are Different and Worth Paying More For
Electric vehicles offer many advantages.
Despite the added cost of EV tires, they are worth paying more for.
