Why do electric cars wear out tyres quickly?

Electric cars tend to wear out tyres more quickly compared to conventional combustion engine vehicles due to several factors:

• Instant Torque: Electric vehicles (EVs) have powerful electric motors that deliver instant torque. This results in quick acceleration. This rapid acceleration can put increased stress on the tyres, leading to higher wear rates. This is particularly true during aggressive driving or sudden acceleration.
• Weight Distribution: Electric cars are typically heavier than combustion engine models due to the weight of the battery pack. The weight distribution in EVs is often more concentrated. Hence more pressure is put on the tyres, especially the front tyres in front-wheel-drive models or the rear tyres in rear-wheel-drive models. This uneven weight distribution can accelerate tyre wear.
• Regenerative Braking: Electric cars commonly utilise regenerative braking. This converts kinetic energy into electrical energy to charge the battery while slowing down the vehicle. While regenerative braking helps improve energy efficiency, it also places additional strain on the tyres. The regenerative braking system tends to engage the tyres more frequently. Thus  it leads to faster wear, particularly on the rear tyres.
• High Torque at Low Speeds: Electric motors generate high torque even at low speeds. This can cause wheelspin or tire scrubbing during aggressive acceleration. This can wear down the tyre tread more quickly, especially if the tyres are not specifically designed to handle the high torque characteristics of electric vehicles.
• Tyre Design: Some electric cars may have unique tyre requirements to accommodate the characteristics of electric propulsion systems. Specialised tyres that offer low rolling resistance are optimised for energy efficiency. Alternatively, they are designed for reduced road noise and may have trade-offs in terms of tread life. These specific tyre designs can contribute to faster wear rates in electric vehicles.
• Driving Style: The driving style of some EV owners may contribute to accelerated tyre wear. The powerful and responsive nature of electric motors may encourage more spirited driving, leading to increased tyre wear if not managed carefully.
  It’s worth noting that the extent of tyre wear in electric cars can vary depending on factors such as driving habits, road conditions, tyre type, and maintenance practices. Regular tyre maintenance, including proper inflation, regular rotation, and alignment checks, can help optimise tyre life and ensure safe and efficient driving in electric vehicles.