More economical running costs are often a reason given for the switch to electric vehicles, but it seems one area where cost won’t be reduced is tyres.  

Due to their increased weight, EVs are especially prone to fast tyre wear and this is something that might concern companies that operate high mileage fleets. The popularity of SUV EVs is of particular concern as these already heavy vehicles are made even heavier by the battery packs. In addition the exceptional torque offered by most EVs and regenerative braking also mean tyres work harder and thus wear quicker. 

A recent survey conducted by tyre supplier Michelin found almost 60% of drivers said they enjoyed the accelerative power of EVs and used it at every opportunity where it was safe to do so. 

Mark Holland, operations director at tyre supplier ATS Euromaster, comments, “Fleets should prepare for accelerated tyre replacement on EVs, certainly in the first phase of driver use. It seems the novelty of the EV driving experience is having an unexpected effect on tyre wear rates. We would also suggest that fleets actively consider driver training before handing over a new EV to a company employee to mitigate these issues.”