Are You a Tesla Owner? Let’s Talk About EV Tires
In response to the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) such as Teslas, the Chevrolet Bolt, the Nissan Leaf and many others, tire manufacturers are now developing tires designed specifically to enhance the performance of electric vehicles. The maintenance of an electric vehicle might seem intimidating to you. Here are two questions you might find yourself asking when shopping for tires:
1. Are special tires required for my electric vehicle?
2. In comparison to traditional tires, how do EV tires differ?
In short, electric vehicles such as a Tesla require slightly different tires because of their specific size. However, technically you can use any tires for your EV, as long as they fit!
So here is the long answer to your questions!
A tire that simply fits doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best fit. There are more than enough reasons to avoid choosing a traditional tire over an electric vehicle-specific tire, and here are just a few of them:
Heavy Load-Bearing Tires
EV-specific tires are specially designed to withstand heavier loads. In electric vehicles, the traditional engine has been replaced with a battery, which, unfortunately, comes at a heavier weight. The tires you choose for your car must be able to effectively and safely be able to withstand that weight.
Instant Torque and Strong Traction
One of the essential requirements for an EV tire is to handle a higher instant torque. This, combined with the heavier weight, demands a tire that can handle the wear. Unlike traditional vehicles, EVs do not have all the moving components of a combustion engine, which puts increased stress on the tires. Higher instant torque also requires enhanced traction to provide the necessary grip on the road, preventing things like hydroplaning. Traditional tires simply aren’t able to withstand the high level of energy and friction required without resulting in quick burnout.
Reduced Road Noise
Remember, unlike traditional automobiles, EVs don’t have an engine, which removes all the sounds the engine would’ve made, enabling you to hear much more. A special combination of sound-absorbing foam and unique rubber compounds is incorporated into EV-specific tires to minimize road noise and maintain that smooth, quiet ride we all appreciate.
Reduced Rolling Resistance
Rolling resistance reduction plays a vital role in EV tire development. Tires designed specifically for electric vehicles use specialized technology to reduce roll resistance. As a result of low rolling resistance, there is a significant reduction in energy loss and an increase in battery efficiency. A combination of rigid design patterns, specific tire profiles, and structural techniques are used to achieve this, features that traditional tires lack.
Durability
Last but not least, EV tires require an extremely high level of durability. The vehicle’s weight, instant torque capabilities, and high traction requirements make EV tires capable of withstanding wear and tear that traditional tires cannot handle.
Under normal driving conditions, EV tires should last from 20,000 to 40,000 miles, while traditional tires will last just a fraction of that if they were to be put on an electric vehicle. Aside from keeping you safe on the road, selecting tires tailored to your electric vehicle will save you money and give you more confidence behind the wheel.
Find the Right Tires for Your Electric Vehicle!
It is important to do adequate research on the type of tire your vehicle needs before picking tires for it.
Whether you own a Tesla Model Y, Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Bolt, Nissan Bolt, or any other electric vehicle, Virginia Tire & Auto carries all major tire brands, including EV-specific tires that will not only fit your EV but will also make sure it performs as it should. In order to fully enjoy the capabilities of your electric vehicle, it is our priority to ensure you are fitted with the safest, most suitable tires. You deserve a tire that can keep up with your electric vehicle!
To get a personalized recommendation from our tire experts, use our online search tool or call 855.425.3677 today.