As the number of electric cars in the UK continues to grow at a rapid rate – there are now over 810,000 fully electric vehicles (EVs) on the road and a further 510,000 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) – motorists should be considering what this means for their tyres and whether they need to buy a suitable alternative for their car.
One of the biggest differences between an EV and a conventional internal combustion engine vehicle is the weight of the heavy batteries. This affects the weight distribution in the car and ultimately puts extra strain on the tyres. Additionally, the instant torque that EV’s boast, places more force on the tyres.
Legally speaking, electric and hybrid cars do not need to use EV-specific tyres. However, sticking to old traditional tyres designed for lighter cars may end up doing more harm than good. Electric and hybrid cars should opt for tyres that are heavier, quieter and offer specific types of sidewalls to ensure they perform at their best. Tyres designed specifically for EV or hybrid vehicles offer improved performance and longevity.
It is not only passenger vehicles that will be impacted by the transition to EVs, but also commercial vehicles. Electric vans carry extra weight distributed in a very different way to a traditional van due to the heavier batteries, and with most commercial vehicles carrying regular loads in addition to the battery packs, they need tyres that can respond to the extra strain. A good example of a tyre created with this in mind is Davanti Tyres’ DX440. The perfect product for fleets, it offers an all-purpose tyre that is a popular choice for delivery drivers and tradesmen driving traditional, combustion engine vans. It is also the tyre used for the electric VN5 van from London Electric Vehicle Company pictured above.
Sean Maddocks, Sales Director for the UK and Ireland at Davanti Tyres, says:
“Electric vehicles have a greater load with differing weight distribution, and it is good practice for motorists to consider this when looking at their tyres. The DX440 was always designed to be versatile, and extensive testing has highlighted its ability to maintain the quality and reliable performance transport operators need.”
If you’re driving an EV or looking to transition to an EV, we recommend visiting your local independent garage to get the latest tyre advice. And for more information on Davanti Tyres, please visit: www.davanti-tyres.com.
Photograph courtesy of Davanti Tyres
Be the first to comment