ELECTRIC VEHICLE BASICS
Electric vehicles (EVs) typically don’t require fuel. Instead, they are designed to store energy in a rechargeable battery which powers an electric motor and turns the wheels. From added torque to less engine noise, the benefits of electric vehicles are leading more and more people to make the switch every year. While the main difference between an EV and a traditional vehicle is the power source, if you’re thinking about switching, you should consider other parts of the car, such as how the design of an EV impacts the tires.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN EV TIRES
Choosing the right tires for an EV is essential for maximizing the car's efficiency, braking performance, longevity, and mileage. Choosing a tire engineered specifically for EVs, like the Bridgestone Turanza EV tires, can help you get the most out of your purchase. Turanza EV tires are designed to maximize tread life, minimize road noise, and provide grip. Although many tires may fit and be suitable for EVs, the Turanza EV tire is purpose-built and can offer added value. Turanza EV tires also include our ENLITEN® Technology which lowers rolling resistance for better fuel efficiency and improves vehicle handling.
Here are the top factors to keep in mind when you’re shopping for EV tires:
LOAD INDEX
Due to the larger battery, EVs typically weigh 10% to 20% more compared to a traditional fuel-powered vehicle. That added weight can put added pressure on the tires. Fortunately, most EVs distribute this added weight evenly across the entire vehicle to minimize its negative impact on handling and tire wear. But uniform weight distribution can only do so much — increased weight also requires tires that won’t buckle during intense cornering, braking, and accelerating.
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum weight a vehicle is designed to carry, including the net weight of the vehicle with accessories plus the weight of passengers, fuel, and cargo. This can be found on the driver’s door jamb area or in the owner’s manual and is an important factor used to determine the load index required from your tires.
ROLLING RESISTANCE
Rolling resistance refers to the amount of energy lost to friction as your tires rotate. According to Consumer Reports, rolling resistance “accounts for about 16 percent of the total energy used” in EVs, since their powertrain is so efficient otherwise. As such, tires designed with EVs in mind often prioritize low rolling resistance in order to maximize their range between recharging.
NOISE LEVEL
Without combustion happening under the hood, EVs are remarkably quiet. No clacking valve train or rumbling exhaust means that road noise becomes more apparent inside of EV cabins. Thus, the construction of EV tires often minimizes noise production — something traditional tires don’t always prioritize. If you were to install traditional tires made for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles on an EV, your driving experience might become noticeably louder.
TREAD WEAR LIFE
Many electric vehicles deliver near-instantaneous torque and acceleration — an exhilarating experience, though one that undoubtedly places enormous strain on their tires. Hyundai reports that EVs wear down their tires 20% faster than ICE-powered vehicles due to that instantly available torque. To address this problem, many EV-specific tires utilize specialized rubber compounds that enhance tread wear life.
EV TIRE MAINTENANCE
Electric vehicle tires require care and maintenance just like traditional vehicle tires. Regularly checking tire tread for wear and tear, maintaining optimal air pressure, adjusting for proper wheel alignment and tire balance, and doing regular rotations are all recommended. Look up the tire specs and maintenance schedule recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to ensure you’re optimizing your tires. The vehicle was designed to run under certain conditions, so if you keep an eye on changes and avoid pushing your vehicle past its limits, you can help get the most from your tires.
TIRE DECISION GUIDE
Buying new tires is an investment in your vehicle. Use our tire decision guide to narrow down your options and find a set of tires that fit your vehicle—and your budget.