Whether you’re a new electric vehicle (EV) owner or you were an early adopter, you know EVs offer a smooth, quiet, and powerful ride –– all while contributing to an emissions-free future. But you’ve probably also noticed that your tires are wearing out a lot faster –– especially if you’re using conventional tires designed for a gas-powered vehicle.
Why is this happening? And what can you do about it?
The culprits: More weight and higher torque
There are two main reasons tires on electric vehicles such as Tesla experience more wear and tear: EVs are heavier than gas-powered vehicles and have higher torque –– the twisting power that allows a car to launch forward from a stopped position. The combination of more weight (mainly due to heavy batteries) and quicker acceleration means EV tires need to be able to withstand added strain and longer braking distances.
So what are the best tires for my EV?
Given the added weight and higher torque of EVs, conventional tires have been found to wear down 20 per cent faster compared to tires specifically designed for electric vehicles. That’s why it’s crucial that your car is fitted with the right tires. Investing in high-quality EV tires –– like those made by leading brands such as Michelin, Continental, or Bridgestone –– will save you a lot of time, money, and frustration in the long run.
EV tires feature state-of-the-art technology that extends their durability, including:
- Low rolling resistance: EV tires contain a compound that lowers their rolling resistance, which allows for greater efficiency when starting from a stopped position and helps to offset the wear-and-tear impact of higher torque.
- Optimized grip: Tires like Continental’s EcoContact™ 6 use a special compound that improves braking performance, allowing heavy EVs to achieve a shorter braking distance.
In addition to protection against damage, high quality EV tires are also designed to reduce the amount of tire-generated noise audible in the car cabin –– making for a smoother, quieter, and more enjoyable ride.
What do I need to know about maintaining my EV tires?
Regular maintenance is critical for maximizing the longevity of your EV tires. Make sure to regularly check the air pressure of your tires and get your vehicle checked every six months for proper wheel alignment.
A Tire Terminal specialist can also assess your tires for excessive wear and recommend strategies for extending their life, including alignment or rotation.
If you’re using conventional tires designed for a gas-powered car, we strongly recommend replacing them with the tires made specifically for your vehicle or another major brand of EV tires.
Ready to buy tires for your tesla or EV?
If you’re looking for more advice on maintaining your EV tires or switching your current tires to a brand more suitable for your car’s needs, contact us today! Our tire specialists have the knowledge, skills, and expertise to help you achieve the best possible ride in your electric vehicle.
Look what our Customers are Saying
I had a flat tire and also a ruined wheel. I texted them, got everything sorted out and was given an accurate and fair quote immediately after a few quick and painless questions (thank you Andrew!) the boys at the front are swell guys, and I paid a low low rate for parts and labour, it was not bad at all. Nothing extra was pushed on me either and they fixed my wheels in what felt like less than 20 minutes. Go with these guys if you got tire problems or whatever else they can do for you, they’re top notch. Highly recommended.
Took some tires to here to get mounted and balanced. They had to take off old tires from rims and put new tires on to those rims and install onto my vehicle which they did for an exceptionally low price of 20$/tire…can’t beat that! It took them a little longer than they estimated but other than that I was very pleased with the service and highly recommend this place for tire service.
Guys at the front desk are amazing. Huge store with lots of knowledgeable and professional staff. Highly recommend.