Why should you equip your e-car with winter tires?
Winter conditions can affect the performance of electric cars, especially in terms of traction and range. Choosing the right winter tyres for your electric vehicle is essential for a safe journey. How to choose them correctly? Rather winter or all-season tires? Here you will find our advice to help you make the best choice and prepare your electric vehicle for the winter with peace of mind!
Why do e-cars need winter tires?
Electric cars with their technical features place special demands on the tires, especially in winter. Cold weather conditions can affect both their performance and safety, so winter tires are necessary in certain situations.
Read Also: The effects of the cold on electric cars
The impact of winter conditions on tyre performance
Below 7 °C, conventional tires lose elasticity, which significantly reduces their grip. Winter tyres made from special materials remain elastic even in cold temperatures, providing better grip on icy or snow-covered roads. This not only improves road holding, but also braking distance.
The peculiarities of electric vehicles in winter
- Higher weight: Electric vehicle batteries increase the overall weight, which puts more stress on the tires and requires a model that can handle this load.
- Instant motor torque: Unlike internal combustion engine vehicles, electric cars deliver power instantly, which increases the risk of losing traction on slippery surfaces.
- Impact on range: Winter tyres optimise fuel efficiency in winter by reducing rolling resistance and thus helping to maintain an adequate range despite the cold.
How to choose the right winter tires for an electric car?
Choosing the right winter tires for your electric car is crucial to ensure both safety and performance during the cold season. Since electric vehicles have unique characteristics, certain criteria must be taken into account in order to make the right choice.
The most important criteria: adhesion, autonomy and durability
- Optimal adhesion: Prefer tyres with a good M+S (Mud + Snow) marking or the 3PMSF (3 Peak Mountain Snowflake) pictogram, which certify their performance on snowy or icy roads.
- Minimal impact on range: Choose tyres with low rolling resistance, specially designed to reduce energy consumption and maintain your vehicle's range.
- Higher durability: Winter tires for electric cars must withstand increased wear and tear due to vehicle weight and engine torque. High-quality materials ensure a longer service life.
Are there special winter tyres for electric cars?
Even if it may surprise you, so far there are no tires that have been specially developed for electric cars. So you can equip your e-car with classic winter tires or all-season tires that are also suitable for cars with combustion engines!
Many manufacturers offer winter tyres for all vehicles. For example:
- The Michelin Alpin range (Alpin 6, Alpin 5, Alpin A4): Known for its increased safety thanks to MaxTouch technology, which distributes tire pressure to increase tire life.
- The Hankook Winter range (I*Cept RS3, I*Cept Evo 3): Appreciated for optimal grip on cold roads, combining safety and performance while keeping energy consumption moderate.
- Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 tires: Known for their robustness and optimal tractive force.
Winter or all-season tyres: which is the better choice?
In view of the winter conditions, the question often arises as to whether you should choose winter tyres or all-season tyres. Both options have advantages and limitations that depend on your usage and the weather conditions you will face.
Comparison of performance in winter conditions
- Winter tire: They offer optimal grip on snow-covered, icy or wet roads. Their special rubber compound remains soft in cold conditions, resulting in better traction and shorter braking distances. They are especially recommended in regions where temperatures often drop below 7°C.
- All-season tyres: Although they can cope with moderate winter conditions, their performance in extreme situations (dense snow or ice) lags behind that of winter tires. But they are a good alternative for areas where winters are mild.
The pros and cons of the two solutions
| Feature | Winter tire | All-season tyres |
| Adhesion in winter | Excellent | Satisfying |
| Comfort in summer | Less suitable for high temperatures | Good |
| Durability | Less durable with year-round use | More durable for mixed use |
| Cost | Purchase and seasonal change required | Cheaper over a whole year |
Which option should you prefer for an electric car?
Practical tips for caring for your winter tyres
To ensure the performance and durability of your winter tyres, regular maintenance is essential. With these best practices, you can maximize their efficiency and optimize their lifespan.
Checking tire pressure and rotation
- Check the tire pressure regularly: In cold temperatures, the pressure can drop, which increases rolling resistance and reduces range. Check the pressure and adjust it according to the manufacturer's recommendations, especially during the cold season.
- Perform a tire rotation: Electric vehicles with their instant torque lead to uneven wear on the front and rear tires. Regular rotation distributes wear evenly and extends the life of the tires.
Tips to extend the life of your tires
- Store your tyres in a dry place: It is advisable to store your winter tyres in a dry place where they are protected from light and temperature changes. You can also use protective cases to prevent damage.
- Check the condition of the tyres regularly: Check the tread depth and look for signs of unusual wear or damage. Preventive maintenance can avoid expensive problems.
Inference
Winter tires for electric cars are an essential factor in ensuring your safety and optimizing your vehicle's performance during the cold season. Their improved grip, ability to handle the weight and instant torque of electric vehicles make them a must-have in extreme winter conditions.
Whether you choose winter or all-season tyres, it is important that you choose the right models and follow good care practices. By monitoring the condition of the tires, adjusting the air pressure and following the storage recommendations, you will extend their service life while ensuring a worry-free and safe ride.
FAQ
How do you drive an electric car on snow?
On a snowy road, whether you have an electric car or not, you should always drive with foresight, brake and accelerate smoothly, and always drive in a straight line. Also, avoid turning the steering wheel too much, otherwise you could slip.
When should you fit winter tires on an electric vehicle?
It is advisable to fit winter tyres when temperatures drop below 7°C, as the rubber of summer tyres hardens, which reduces grip on the road.
Do the tires of electric cars wear out faster than those of cars with combustion engines?
Under similar conditions, the tires of electric cars tend to wear out faster and have a shorter lifespan than the tires of cars with combustion engines. This wear is due to the weight of the battery, which puts extra pressure on the vehicle's tires. The high engine torque also contributes to premature wear of the tyres.