When you buy a new EV, you might notice that the tires look a little different than the set you had on your last gas vehicle. Automakers often opt for low rolling-resistance tires, and those that help maximize the range of electric vehicles, but even the greenest tires need care to last and perform at their best. Maintaining your EV’s tires is one of the best ways to ensure the best range, the most comfortable ride, and the highest possible level of safety. We will cover the basics of tire care in this article and give you the information you need to keep your tires in top shape and rolling smoothly.
What Makes EV Tires Different?
Tire manufacturers, such as Sailun with its ERange product line, design tires that help maximize EV range, which is done in a few different ways. The first is that their rubber compounds and design help reduce rolling resistance, cutting the level of friction between the tire and the road. That reduces strain on the electric drivetrain, helping improve the range. Sailun’s ERange tire uses the company’s proprietary rubber compound process called EcoPoint3, which cuts rolling resistance while generating superior grip and longevity.
EV-specific tires may also have unique tread patterns with different levels of rigidity and grip than normal passenger car tires. They help with rolling resistance and grip, but they also provide a quieter ride. Electric vehicles don’t have an engine to help drown out road and wind noise, making it more important to shave sound levels in other areas.
How to Keep Your Tires in Top Condition
Tire care for your electric vehicle might seem daunting, but many of the top tips also apply to the tires on your last gas vehicle.
Regular Inspections
It’s a good idea to give your tires a regular visual and physical inspection, especially if you regularly drive long distances. Look over the tires to ensure that there are no cracks, damage, or punctures. The tread should be in good condition without gouges or damage to the pattern. The sidewalls should be in good condition without any bulges or abnormalities, and check the valve stem (the air fill valve) to ensure it’s secure and has a cap.
Rotations and Alignment
Rotating your tires is essential, as it moves them to different positions on your car to ensure proper wear. Many EVs are rear-wheel drive, which means that the brunt of the accelerative force hits the rear tires. That makes it important to rotate the tires every 6,000-8,000 miles, or as recommended by the tire manufacturer.
Alignment is also a significant issue with tire wear. Over time, your vehicle’s wheels can end up misaligned, either by pointing slightly in the wrong direction (called toe) or sitting at the wrong angle relative to the vehicle (called camber). If one of those metrics is out of sync, the tire can wear unevenly as one part of the tread is in more constant contact with the road surface. While racing teams and performance vehicles may need a more extreme setup, depending on the event, regular road cars need as much tread in contact with the road as possible to ensure proper performance and safety. It’s best to have an alignment every two to three years or sooner if you drive on rough road surfaces or hit a particularly nasty pothole.
Ensure Proper Inflation
Every vehicle is different, but there is an easy way to find out the recommended tire pressure for your EV. Inside the driver’s door, there should be a yellow and white sticker that displays the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) pressure. It’s important to note that the pressures are listed for cold tires, so it’s best to check them when the vehicle has been sitting for a while. Under or over-inflated tires don’t have full contact with the road surface, which causes premature wear and reduces grip and safety.
If you need to add or remove tire air pressure, most gas stations have filling stations that run for a set time at a small cost (usually $1 or less). Some have air pressure gauges built in, but it’s a good idea to carry your own if you’re caught away from an air-filling location. Releasing tire air pressure can be done safely by applying pressure to the tip of the valve stem with the cap removed. Pressing the small tip at the end of the valve stem releases air, but be sure to go slow to avoid releasing too much.
It might seem easier to go for a mainstream tire for your EV, but you may see reduced range, more tire noise, and worse performance. Tires like the Sailun ERange will help you get the most out of your EV while delivering the best durability, comfort, and performance.
For more information on Sailun's ERange EV tires, please visit erangetires.com.
