Regular Or Reinforced Rubber – Why Your EV Needs Special Tires?

We’ll tell you what to do. Get ready like you would any other day and browse at a reputable auto dealership in Columbus, like Headquarter Nissan, for an electric or hybrid vehicle. When the salesman comes over, don’t shy away from asking what the deal is between regular tires & those built for EVs.

If it’s our guy, you’ll be well set to own a 2022 Nissan Leaf, the brand’s first serially produced all-electric vehicle, with a lifetime powertrain warranty and many more perks on the go. But first, the tires!

Standard Tires & Hybrid/EV Rubber – Difference?

Conventional pneumatic tires come in all-terrain, energy-efficient, fuel-saving, winter & special treads – if one is to look at the category holistically. They are composed of natural rubber & polymer synthetics, reinforced with carbon & metal cords. They will support the car they are designed for as long as it’s rated as an internal combustion engine (ICE) carrier.

Hybrids & EVs are – of course, cleaner cars – but they are heavier. Hybrids pack in two different engines: an ICE and a motor. That makes the cars heavier and throws off the considerations factored in by typical tire design. So, these tires need to be stronger in the sidewalls, have better traction to control turning stability, enhanced treads, and then the ability to offer fuel efficiency as an ICE eco-car would. Range is among the major utilities of an EV, and you need tires designed for the job.

The EV Tire Buying Checklist

1. Load Index: 

You should be getting the tires that can support your hybrid/EV. You need stronger, reinforced tires in the XL band. Ensure you get one with stronger, extended sidewalls that can last without air in an emergency.

2. Inertial Resistance:

You need low rolling resistance tires (LRR) to deal with the immediate torque of an EV against the inertia of a heavy vehicle – as these conditions can wear out tire treads & strain the drivetrain. LRR tires offer a balance of grip & tire mobility with enhanced range.

3. Braking Grip: 

Heavier vehicles can face longer braking distances than a tire with a good grip can cater to safely. You need tires that offer grip optimizing treads without compromising the LRR requirements of an EV tire. You also need to stick to reputed brands offered at authorized dealerships for your EV’s tires.

4. Noise Generation: 

With a fully electric vehicle, there is no engine to sugarcoat the sounds of rolling rubber, and the monotonous sound can get on one’s nerves. EV tires also come in noise-reducing variants that make your drive smoother, quiet, & with all the qualities of an LRR, fuel-efficient tire.

5. Reinforced Compounds:

Lastly, you have to get tires made of stronger lightweight compounds. That contributes to the checklist mentioned above & you get the right tires that will not wear out under the weight of the EV or its immediate torque.

At Headquarter Nissan, serving Columbus, GA, you can have your hybrids and EVs serviced & fitted with suitable tires. You can also put in a word to become the proud owner of a 2022 Nissan Leaf and make your mark in sustainable efforts to contribute to a cleaner atmosphere!

Get in touch with us today for the best EV rims!