Do Electric Vehicles Need Different Tyres?

There are several key differences between EVs and petrol/diesel cars, but what about their tyres?

Although it is not widely known, electric vehicles do greatly benefit from being equipped with specialised EV tyres.

In a recent study, global tyre manufacturer, Michelin, discovered that drivers of electric vehicles could extend their range by 10% when making use of EV-specific tyres.

Their analyses also highlighted that 72% of respondents were unaware that these different tyres existed.

Managing Director for UK and Ireland at Michelin, John Howe, commented: “A great deal of innovation and research goes into producing a tyre that can increase the range of an electric car. It requires the incorporation of several new tyre technologies to lower rolling resistance, increase efficiency and optimise the handling characteristics of electric cars.”

If you’re a driver of an electric vehicle there is no legal requirement to use EV-specific tyres, however, they do come with several benefits.

Electric cars are much heavier than standard ICE cars due to their heavy battery and require more durable tyres to withstand the extra pressure as a result. EVs tend to produce more torque too which also increases tyre wear.

EV tyres are made with thicker sidewalls and are produced using different compounds to cope with these added demands and to reduce noise. This ensures that the tyres last longer whilst also keeping in line with an EV’s efficiency and aerodynamics.

Having EV-specific tyres for your electric car means that you’ll get extra mileage out of every charge and you’ll have tyres that need replacing less frequently. Despite the possibility of paying extra for EV tyres, the added efficiency and robustness they provide will save you money in the long run.