Why do my Electric Car Tyres need replacing more often?

It is the Impact of Weight on Tyre Wear

It is the Impact of Weight on Tyre Wear

Electric vehicles are heavier than fuel vehicles This increased weight is primarily due to the battery packs that power the EVs. Batteries are dense and heavy, often adding several hundred kilograms to the total weight of the vehicle. Consequently, this added weight has a direct impact on the tyres.

How the Vehicle Weight affects the Tyres

Heavier vehicles exert more pressure on the tyres, leading to faster degradation. The tyres of electric cars are subjected to greater forces during acceleration, braking, and cornering. These forces cause increased friction between the tyre surface and the road, accelerating the wear process. The greater the weight, the more significant this effect becomes.

• Increased friction: As the weight of the vehicle increases, so does the frictional force between the tyre and the road surface. This friction is the primary cause of tyre wear, as it leads to the gradual erosion of the tyre's tread.
• Higher rolling resistance: Heavier tyres have a higher rolling resistance, which means they encounter more resistance as they roll over the surface of the road. This resistance converts into heat, further contributing to tyre wear.
• Stress on the tyre structure: The increased weight places additional stress on the tyre's structural integrity. Over time, this stress can lead to the breakdown of the materials used in the tyre, reducing its lifespan.

Strategies to Mitigate Tyre Wear

While heavier tyres do wear down quicker, there are strategies that electric car owners can employ to mitigate this issue.

Regular Maintenance

Regular tyre maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of EV tyres. This includes checking tyre pressure, rotating tyres, and ensuring proper wheel alignment.

• Tyre Pressure: Under-inflated tyres can increase the contact area with the road, leading to higher friction and accelerated wear. Maintaining the recommended tyre pressure can significantly reduce wear.
• Tyre rotation: Regularly rotating tyres helps distribute wear more evenly across all four tyres. This practice can prevent premature wear on specific tyres.
• Wheel Alignment: Proper wheel alignment ensures that tyres wear evenly. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven wear patterns, reducing tyre life.
• Tyres 4 U Wirral can help with all of the above, we offer free Air Pressure checks and optimisation, so pop in anytime. We also offer a service to rotate your tyres, and complete Wheel Alignment if needed. Happy to chat through the options with you.

Choosing the Right Tyres

Selecting tyres specifically designed for electric vehicles can also make a difference. EV tyres are engineered to handle the increased weight and torque of electric cars.

• Durability: Look for tyres that offer enhanced durability and are built to withstand the unique demands of electric vehicles.
• Low rolling resistance: opt for tyres with low rolling resistance to reduce wear and improve overall efficiency.

If you wanted to discuss your vehicle, and options for you, please call 01516380906, email Tyres4uwirral@hotmail.co.uk, or pop down to see us and we would be happy to discuss the options and what these mean, we are always happy to help.