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Although many EVs come with EV-specific tires, they are not a necessity, but rather a complement to the all-electric drivetrain.
Electric vehicles have several attributes that warrant EV-specific tires. Relative to similarly sized ICE vehicles, EVs are often heavier, which may require tires that can handle higher loads and provide sufficient support. Additionally, given that electric motors provide large amounts of instantaneous torque, EVs often display increased tread wear relative to ICE vehicles. Some tires are specifically produced to handle the increased torque while minimizing wear, increasing the lifespan of the tire.
EV-specific tires may also enhance the overall driving experience. EVs are often much quieter than ICE vehicles, making road noise more apparent. Specialized tires often feature designs and materials to minimize noise.
Lastly, driving range is very important to the overall EV experience. EV-specific tires are designed with lower rolling resistance to improve efficiency and extend driving range. This may come with a drawback, however, with reduced road grip in certain situations.
Several tire manufacturers have brought EV-specific tires to the market, including Michelin, Bridgestone, and Continental. Some vehicles, like the Chevrolet Bolt, come equipped with Michelin Energy Saver A/C from the factory. Michelin claims that these tires are made with a specialized type of rubber, which helps all vehicles (not just EVs) improve fuel economy.
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