What about tires on Electric Vehicles? 

You are considering buying an electric vehicle because you hear that they don’t need regular maintenance. While it has no oil to change or engine to fix, an EV still has four tires and those will need to be maintained and replaced just like on a traditional gas-powered car. But those EV tires are a little different. The family of dealerships at Beach Boulevard of Cars is here to help you learn more, so you can shop for your new EV with added confidence.

Do EVs need special tires?

Yes, the tires on your EV are specifically engineered for optimal performance. Electric vehicles are much heavier than gas-powered versions. The added weight of the battery and the instant torque produced by the electric motors places unique stresses on the tires. Manufacturers take all the different loads created by an EV into account when designing a tire that supports an extended driving range while maintaining safe performance.

What is different about EV tires?

The instant torque produced by an EV motor allows for spirited acceleration, somewhat like a drag racer leaping off the line. The tire needs a softer rubber that will grab the pavement and reduce wheel slip.

A significant chunk of the noise you hear inside an EV comes from the tire rolling along the road. Unique tread patterns were designed to optimize aerodynamics and reduce noise. The aerodynamics come into play in an SUV or truck design where more of the front of the tire is exposed to the oncoming air. The tread helps to direct air around the vehicle and lower drag.

Stiffer sidewalls are needed to support the added weight. Also, they lower the rolling resistance number which is crucial in extending your driving range.

How to Care for My EV Tires

While your new EV does not need an oil change or the engine air filter replaced, you still need to use the same diligence to maintain your tires.

• Check and top up air pressure in all tires to meet manufacturer standards once a month.
• Rotate your tires every six months or 5,000 miles–whichever comes first.
• Check for uneven tread wear and replace when there is 2/32 of an inch remaining.

Can I use regular car tires on my electric vehicle?

While you can mount a gas car tire onto the wheel of an EV, it is just not a good idea. The heavier vehicle could blow out the sidewall when taking an exit ramp at speed. You will wear down the tread in just a few thousand miles as the rapid acceleration will eat up the rubber. Your wheels may slip during routine driving maneuvers. Using a tire that is not rated for an electric vehicle is a serious safety risk.

Where can I find EV tires?

Electric vehicle tires can be found at any dealer that sells EVs and at most tire stores. Your dealer will be able to supply a tire that is recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Since electric vehicles are becoming more popular, you should also be able to source tires designed for your ride with a quick online search. Just enter the make, model, trim, and year of your vehicle into the search engine, and you will find a list of tires available in your area.

As more EVs hit the road over the next few years, the number of options for replacement tires will continue to grow.

Is it time for a new set of EV tires?

If you live in the Huntington Beach area and pilot an EV made by any of the manufacturers represented on the Beach Boulevard of Cars, visit one of our service centers to find the tires crafted specifically for your ride.