Electric Vehicles have issues related to tyre life and maintenance

4 May 2024 by Vinjamuri Innovations in Non classé

Like any vehicle, electric vehicles (EVs) too face issues related to tire life and maintenance. However, there are some specific considerations for EVs which have a higher impact and reduced tyre life. A point that Industry failed to focus on, is the issues related to reduced tyre life and consequences of pollution related to tyre life.

1. Vehicle Torque:
Electric vehicles are renowned for their instantaneous torque delivery, and it is something that sets them apart from traditional IC engine vehicles. While this torque facilitates rapid acceleration, it also places greater stress on tires, particularly during intense bursts of acceleration. The abrupt transfer of power from the electric motor to the wheels can lead to increased friction between the tire and the road surface, hastening tire wear. Also, the high torque demand at low speeds places considerable stress on tires, especially during acceleration from a standstill. The repeated application of torque to overcome inertia also leads to increased tire wear, particularly in urban driving scenarios characterized by frequent stop-and-go traffic patterns.

2. Weight Distribution:
EVs are typically heavier than traditional internal combustion engine vehicles due to the weight of the battery pack. The architecture of electric vehicles, characterized by the placement of heavy battery packs in the vehicle chassis, alters the distribution of weight compared to conventional vehicles. This redistribution of weight can result in uneven pressure exerted on the tires, causing accelerated wear, especially during cornering and manoeuvring. The combination of a heavier overall vehicle weight and uneven weight distribution exacerbates the strain on tires, leading to accelerated degradation.

3. Regenerative Braking:
Regenerative braking, a feature inherent to many electric vehicles, is designed to recapture kinetic energy during deceleration and braking, converting it into electrical energy for storage in the battery. While regenerative braking enhances energy efficiency, it also imposes additional strain on tires. The process of regenerative braking involves the application of reverse torque to the wheels, creating friction between the tires and the road surface. Over time, this friction contributes to tire wear, particularly in stop-and-go traffic conditions where braking events are frequent.
Data needs to be collected on this front to come up with environmental issues. However, going by customer feedback and reposts it is generally understood that EV have a lesser tyre life compared to other vehicles and this has to be factored before saying “Zero Emission” vehicles.