Why do electric car tires wear out so fast?

Unsprung weight: a heavy burden

EVs are significantly heavier than their gasoline counterparts because of their large battery packs. This added weight means the tires must withstand greater pressure, which increases rolling resistance and speeds up tire wear.

A vehicle's weight divides into two types:

• Sprung weight: the portion supported by the suspension, including the cabin and engine
• Unsprung weight: components like wheels, tires, and brakes that are directly connected to the road

The higher the unsprung weight, the greater the force exerted on the tires when the vehicle moves over bumps and uneven surfaces. Because EVs carry heavier battery systems, their tires experience greater stress, leading to faster tread and sidewall wear.

Traditional tire designs often can't handle the increased torque and weight of electric vehicles. As a result, EVs often experience premature tire wear and reduced efficiency. Tire manufacturers have therefore developed EV-specific tires with reinforced sidewalls to handle the extra weight, lower rolling resistance for improved efficiency, and tougher tread compounds for high torque.

Despite these advancements, even reinforced EV tires wear out faster than expected, because even the most advanced rubber compounds struggle to keep up with the extreme forces applied by EVs.

Driving habits and tire maintenance

While EV tires naturally wear out faster, driving habits and regular maintenance play an important role in extending their lifespan. Here are some essential strategies you can use to reduce excessive tire wear:

1. Regular tire rotations: Rotate EV tires every 5,000 to 8,000 km to ensure more even wear.
2. Proper tire inflation: Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, preventing excessive heat buildup and premature wear.
3. Gentle acceleration: Avoid flooring the accelerator, particularly when taking off from a standstill. Smooth acceleration reduces strain on the tires.
4. Alignment and suspension checks: Because of the added weight of EVs, misalignment can speed up tire wear. Routine maintenance helps ensure even tread wear and better handling.
5. Investing in EV-specific tires: Standard tires, not designed for EVs, may wear out quickly. Reinforced, low-rolling-resistance tires can significantly improve tire longevity.

Treading carefully: the road ahead for EV tires

As the EV market grows, tire manufacturers are developing more durable and efficient solutions to reduce wear. Some promising innovations include self-healing tires that automatically repair minor tread damage, smart tires embedded with sensors to monitor wear and improve performance, and use of sustainable materials that reduce environmental impact while maintaining durability.

Despite all the benefits EVs offer, the degradation of their tires is undeniable. You can mitigate the effects of instant torque and unsprung weight on your tires by adopting proper maintenance practices. As manufacturers refine EV tire technology, the future holds more efficient, durable, and sustainable solutions tailored to meet the demands of electric mobility.

If you have questions about your EV’s tires, visit your local NexDrive service centre and speak with a technician for expert advice on maintenance and replacement options.