Electric cars are increasingly appealing to drivers. The number of electric or hybrid vehicles on the market continues to grow. This new dynamic in the automotive market raises many questions, particularly regarding the choice of tyres to fit on electric or hybrid vehicles.
Tyre manufacturers face new challenges in offering tyres suitable for this new market. The importance of having good tyres on your vehicle is no longer in question, whether from a performance or safety perspective. These performances must be further improved for tyres for electric and hybrid cars. The requirements are indeed different from those of traditional tyres. Generally, tyres for electric or hybrid cars are quieter and less fuel-consuming thanks to a suitable structure and rubber mix.
Specific structure of tyres for electric cars:
While tyres for thermal or electric cars have a similar structure - carcass, belt and tread, the design of tyres for electric vehicles differs slightly since electric vehicles generally have a higher mass due to the weight of the batteries.
The internal structure of tyres for electric cars is optimised to reduce rolling resistance as much as possible. This allows for better autonomy: with tyres specially designed for hybrid or electric vehicles, battery use is rationalised, the vehicle can travel more kilometres on a single charge.
Tyre manufacturers for electric vehicles must take into account the high weight of the batteries which make electric vehicles generally heavier than thermal vehicles. It is the tyres that directly support this additional load. The carcass of tyres for electric vehicles is specially adapted to this overload.
Rubber / road contact, grip and noise
The engine torque of electric vehicles is generally higher than that of a thermal vehicle; for this reason, manufacturers strive to offer a rubber compound specially designed for electric cars, a rubber that provides more grip than a traditional tyre while maintaining a high level of longevity.
Noise comfort is also important when producing tyres for electric or hybrid cars, since, in these vehicles, the cabin is much quieter. It is again by adjusting the components of the rubbers that manufacturers today manage to design much quieter tyres.
Frequently Asked Questions - Tyres for electric cars
Do tyres for electric cars last as long as traditional tyres?
Yes, the lifespan of tyres for electric vehicles is similar to that of traditional tyres. However, be careful with the driving mode you practice with your electric car: as it has more torque and weighs more, accelerations must be moderate to avoid premature tyre wear.
Can I fit any tyre on my electric vehicle?
Yes, it is possible to fit any type of tyres on electric vehicles as long as the size and load and speed indices are respected. However, tyres specially designed for electric cars will offer better noise comfort and better energy autonomy.
Do tyres for electric cars cost more than traditional tyres?
No, the prices of tyres for electric cars and those for petrol cars are equivalent. Our prices are constantly renegotiated with manufacturers to allow you to buy your tyres for electric cars at the best price.
Is there a specific mention indicated on tyres for electric cars?
Yes, sometimes tyres for electric cars are marked with a specific marking, which allows them to be distinguished from traditional tyres. The mention indicated on the rubber varies from one tyre manufacturer to another, but generally serves to specify the unique design, fully adapted to electric cars. Here are some of the markings or mentions indicated on tyres intended for electric cars:
"EV" marking: the term "EV" for "Electric Vehicle" is sometimes used by tyre manufacturers. This term is generally found in the model name such as the Bridgestone Turanza EV tyre, a tyre model specially designed for electric vehicles.
"T0" and "T1" markings: these markings indicate the original equipment of the Tesla manufacturer.
"NF0", "NF1", "NF2" markings: these designations refer to tyres for electric Porsches.
Commercial name "iON": series of HANKOOK tyres specially dedicated to electric cars.
The use of tyres for electric cars on electric and hybrid vehicles is crucial for safety and performance. These tyres are specially developed to meet the specific needs of electric vehicles with rubber compounds, processes, a structure and materials specially adapted.
With special tyres for electric cars, you are assured of fully enjoying the advantages and performances of these vehicles.
