This is a sponsored article from our partners at ERANGE EV.
Today’s tires are a marvel of engineering, providing thousands of miles of useful life, a quiet ride, fuel economy benefits, and more. Tire manufacturers offer products for a range of vehicle types and uses, including tires made specifically for electric vehicles. Because of the large battery packs EVs tote around, they are typically significantly heavier than comparable gas-only vehicles, which makes selecting the right tire essential to a safe, convenient ownership experience. That said, there are a few weight-related things to consider when shopping for EV tires, so let’s take a closer look at how their weight affects tire choice and performance.
How Much Heavier Are EVs?
Research has shown that EVs weigh around 30 percent more than comparable internal combustion vehicles. The study looked at a 2024 Hyundai Kona as an example, finding that the gas model weighed 3,053 pounds, while the Kona EV checked in at 3,758 pounds. The same is true for larger EVs, especially trucks, like the Ford F-150 Lightning, which weighs up to 6,500 pounds in some forms, while the gas-powered alternative tips the scales at just over 5,000 pounds in its heaviest format.
Gallery: Sailun eRange Tires On A Tesla
How Does EV Weight Affect Tires?
Tires are the only part of a vehicle designed to touch the road, so there can be considerable forces at play, even on a leisurely drive to the grocery store. Heavier vehicles stress tires more, placing a more significant load on the tire structure and exerting more downward force on the rubber treads. The extra weight can increase friction, causing tires to wear more quickly, making durability a key concern when shopping for EV tires. Over time, EVs’ weight can shorten tire life as the rubber is continuously pressed into the road surface with a higher force than with gas models.
EV tires must also have the structural integrity to withstand the added battery weight, and many tire manufacturers have adapted their tire development processes to adapt. Sailun’s ERange tires have increased load-bearing capacity with a reinforced sidewall to maintain the tire’s structure, deliver excellent performance, and withstand the test of time. Sailun employs specially formulated rubber compounds and unique tread patterns that help the tire perform its best under the heavier weights of today’s EVs.
Heavier vehicles also require longer braking distances to cope with momentum and acceleration. EV-specific tires are designed with this in mind and are better suited for the repeated stresses of slowing a heavy, battery-laden vehicle. Their tread patterns and structural rigidity also contribute to shortening braking distances.
What Else Impacts EV Tire Life and Performance?
One of the most prominent selling points for EVs, at least initially, was their “instant” torque. Unlike gas engines, which must rev to generate torque, electric motors offer peak torque off the line. That increased turning power can stress tires even in more relaxed driving scenarios, as drivers are often tempted to utilize their EV’s strong acceleration in everyday situations. More turning power creates additional friction for the tires, causing them to wear more quickly. Sailun ERange tires are manufactured with a liquid phase mixing EcoPoint technology that gives them an extended lifespan without sacrificing comfort or performance.
What About EV Tires and Range?
You may have heard the phrase “low rolling resistance” when people talk about EV-specific tires. That relates to the tire design, which for EVs is intended to reduce friction (rolling resistance) and improve range. Less friction means less resistance for the electric motors to overcome, improving the vehicle’s range. Manufacturers achieve that friction reduction with a stiffer sidewall and specially designed tread patterns, which also help cope with the added weight.
Can I Install Normal Tires On My EV?
You can, but it’s not ideal. It might be tempting to save a few dollars buying a standard all-season tire for your EV, but you’ll miss out on the range and performance benefits, and you may find yourself shopping for tires again earlier than expected. Standard passenger car tires, including all-season, winter, and summer performance models, are fine for lighter cars and SUVs, but they are not designed to withstand the stronger forces exerted by EVs and do not deliver the same range benefit. It’s best to select a specially designed tire that matches your EV’s needs and performance specifications.
This may all sound overwhelming, but the good news is that with a bit of research, finding the right EV tire is surprisingly straightforward. Select a tire with the weight rating you need, and be sure to research the range, sound, and performance specs for the tire you want. Sailun’s ERange tires come in various sizes for many new electric models, so if you want to learn more, head to the website to see the available tire models.
