A Guide to EV Tire Buying and Maintenance

Electric vehicles’ recent surge in popularity can be largely attributed to one factor: range. Early attempts to perfect the EV model were hampered by battery limitations, and the distance you could travel before needing to stop for a charge was therefore limited. But today, the average range of EVs has skyrocketed from its humble origins, now landing anywhere in the 250 – 500 mile range. 

But as with traditional gas vehicles, countless variables can impact your car’s sustainability. One of the most paramount components when it comes to extending your EV’s range is your tires. When shopping for tires for your EV, it’s important to remember the type of vehicle they were initially designed to support. 

In this guide, Billy Wood Ford helps maximize your range by explaining everything you need to know about EV tires. 

Switching From Your Original Tires: The Risks 

It’s important to remember that the tires originally equipped on your electric vehicle were developed specifically with that car in mind. EV manufacturers are well aware their vehicles have a unique set of performance needs, and their tires are subsequently designed to help maximize range.  

That said, every car owner has their own preference when it comes to their vehicle’s accessories. To be clear, it’s perfectly okay to trade in for tires more your style. But you need to be aware of the performance-altering effects such a transfer might have. 

For example, you might understandably desire tires with better grip to improve performance and braking. But by abandoning the tires originally intended for the EV, you’re leaving your once-silent vehicle vulnerable to factors like increased noise – not to mention increased range. But if you opt for tires with slow wear to extend range, your EV could suffer from a downturn in performance. 

Discovering the right balance is certainly possible. But regardless of what tires you select, you’ll always run the risk of unexpected issues when you deviate from the intended EV tires. Before you make any changes, consult with our Tire Service professionals, who will help you make the selection most suited to you and your EV. 

Watch Your Tires’ PSI 

If you’ve owned a gas-based vehicle, you probably know that under-inflated tires can lead to unwanted fuel guzzling. The same basic principle applies to electric vehicles. Being low by even a few PSI can radically affect your rolling resistance, which is crucial to an EV’s range. (For this reason, low friction tires are often preferable for EVs, as they lead to lower rolling resistance, and therefore increased range, efficiency, and overall sustainability.) 

It’s also important to remember that the air pressure in your tires varies more significantly during these colder winter months. Be sure to check the PSI levels of your car at least once per month this winter – and ideally more frequently than that.  

And if issues still arise or persist, make an appointment with our Service Center as soon as you’re able to. 

Put a Charge in Your Life 

Here at Billy Wood Ford, we pride ourselves in being at the forefront of modern ingenuity. Check out the F-150 Lightning, the top electric pick-up in the country, today.

Whether you’re looking to join the EV community, are interested in another vehicle, or are simply in need of an oil change, Billy Wood Ford has everything you need to help you roll smoothly into the new year.