When it comes to electric vehicles (EVs), most people focus on battery size, regenerative braking, or driving habits to maximize range. But one factor that often goes unnoticed can make a big difference—your tires. Yes, the type of tires you choose can have a significant impact on your EV’s driving range. In fact, it’s one of the most overlooked elements affecting how far you can go on a single charge.
Understanding Rolling Resistance
The key concept here is rolling resistance—the amount of energy your vehicle uses to keep its tires moving at a constant speed. Tires with lower rolling resistance require less energy to roll, which translates to less power being drawn from your battery. In EVs, where efficiency is everything, reducing rolling resistance can directly improve your range.
Special low rolling resistance tires are often fitted on EVs from the factory for this exact reason. They’re designed with stiffer sidewalls, advanced rubber compounds, and unique tread patterns to minimise friction with the road.
How Much Range Can the Right Tires Save?
Studies and real-world testing have shown that using EV-specific or low rolling resistance tires can improve range by 3% to 7%, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions. While that might sound minor, on a Tesla Model 3 with a 500 km range, that’s an extra 15 to 35 km—enough to get you home in a pinch or reduce how often you need to charge.
On the flip side, installing high-performance or standard tires not designed for EVs can increase energy consumption, reduce efficiency, and shave significant kilometres off your range, especially during city driving with frequent stops and starts.
Tire Weight and Sidewall Stiffness Matter Too
EVs are heavier than petrol-powered cars due to the battery packs. This means tires must handle more weight, which puts added pressure on rolling resistance. Lightweight tires with reinforced sidewalls help reduce this impact. Stiffer tires are also better suited to handle the high torque EVs produce without wearing out quickly.
Noise and Comfort vs. Range
Many EV drivers value a quiet ride, and tire manufacturers have responded by developing foam-lined tires to reduce road noise. The good news is that some of these quieter tires also offer low rolling resistance, allowing drivers to enjoy both a peaceful cabin and decent range. However, tires built strictly for performance or noise reduction without efficiency in mind may not be as range-friendly.
Don’t Forget Proper Inflation
Even the best EV-optimised tires won’t help if they’re under-inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and negatively affects both range and safety. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month, especially in Singapore’s warm weather where pressure can fluctuate more rapidly.
Conclusion
So, can tire choice affect EV range? Absolutely. From tread design and compound to rolling resistance and tire pressure, your tires are doing much more than just keeping your car on the road. Choosing EV-specific, low rolling resistance tires—and maintaining them properly—can help you squeeze the most distance out of every charge. It’s a small change that can deliver a big impact, especially in a city where every kilometre counts.
Leave a Reply