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Why EV and Hybrid Cars Wear Out Tyres Faster

Introduction 

Electric (EV) and hybrid vehicles are praised for their eco-friendliness and low operating costs, but one surprising downside that many owners face is accelerated tyre wear. This blog explores why EVs and hybrids tend to wear through tyres quicker than traditional cars offers practical advice—especially for drivers in Bondi, Randwick, Penrith or surroundings. —on how AJ Tyres can help you manage and mitigate this issue. 

1. Extra Weight from Batteries 

EVs and hybrids carry heavy battery packs, making them significantly heavier than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles of similar size. On average, an EV can weigh around 20% more than its petrol counterpart. This added mass increases the load on each tyre, especially during acceleration, cornering, and braking—accelerating tread wear. 

2. Instant Torque and Aggressive Acceleration 

Electric motors deliver full torque from zero RPM, enabling impressive acceleration but also putting immense stress on tyres from a standstill. This trait, while fun, leads to more tyre scrubbing and wear, especially if the driver frequently uses rapid acceleration. 

3. Limited Coasting / Constant Drivetrain Load 

Many EVs don’t truly coast—instead, they often engage through momentum via electric motors or regenerative braking systems. This persistent force on the tyres helps recharge the battery but also reduces moments where tyres would otherwise rest, cumulatively accelerating wear. 

4. Tyre Design & Compound Considerations 

Tyres designed for EVs often use softer rubber compounds and lower rolling resistance tread patterns to reduce road noise and extend driving range. Though efficient, these materials can wear down more quickly than traditional, more rugged tyre compounds. 

5. Regenerative Braking Effects (Especially in Hybrids) 

While regenerative braking saves energy and reduces brake wear, it changes how braking forces are distributed across tyres. Some drivers report uneven or accelerated wear resulting from this friction modulation—particularly on hybrids employing frequent stop-start driving cycles. 

6. Real-World Observations from EV and Hybrid Owners 

Reports suggest EV tyres may wear 20–50% faster than ICE counterparts. Many EV and hybrid drivers notice quicker tyre wear despite expecting similar lifespans. Experiences vary—some see rapid wear due to spirited driving, while others, with gentler habits, report mileage comparable to petrol or diesel vehicles. The combination of higher torque and heavier weight drastically increases demands on tyres, especially during cornering and acceleration. 

7. Hybrid-Specific Insights 

Hybrids, while lighter than full EVs, still utilize regenerative systems and often deliver bursts of torque—making their tyres susceptible to wear in ways similar to EVs. Moreover, hybrid-specific tyres typically emphasize fuel economy and quiet operation, not tread longevity. 

8. Environmental & Health Impacts of Tyre Wear 

Increased tyre wear isn't just a maintenance headache—it also contributes to tyre micro-particle emissions, which are emerging as significant environmental and health concerns. Controlling tyre wear in EVs is not only about cost-saving but also about reducing tyre-related pollution. 

9. How AJ Tyres Can Help 

While many factors behind EV and hybrid tyre wear are inherent to their design and operation, smart maintenance significantly extends tyre life. Here's how AJ Tyres assists drivers: 

- Mobile Tyre Services: AJ Tyres brings tyre fitting, pressure checks, and alignment services right to your doorstep—whether in Bondi, Randwick, Penrith, or surroundings. 

- TPMS & Alignment Checks: Proper tyre pressure and wheel alignment are essential to reduce wear—especially for heavier EVs. 

- Quality Tyre Recommendations: AJ Tyres stocks a wide range of tyre brands and helps you choose options that balance EV-specific needs with durability and value. 

- Expert Advice: Their technicians can guide you on ideal replacement intervals, rotations, and tyre choices tailored to EV/hybrid driving patterns. 

10. Practical Tips to Extend EV & Hybrid Tyre Life 

Maintain Correct Tyre Pressure: Under- or over-inflated tyres degrade faster—especially under heavy loads. 

Rotate Tyres Regularly: Promotes even wear across all four tyres. 

Drive Kindly: Smooth starts, gentle braking, and gradual cornering dramatically reduce tyre strain. 

Use Suitable Tyres: Opt for tyres rated for EV/hybrid load and torque demands, rather than standard ICE tyres. 

Monitor Tread and Replace When Needed: Keep an eye on tread depth and don’t delay replacing worn tyres. 

Conclusion 

EVs and hybrids offer exhilarating performance and environmental benefits—but they do pose challenges for tyre wear due to heavier batteries, instant torque, regenerative systems, and tyre design. With wear rates potentially 20–50% faster in some cases, staying proactive with maintenance is key. 

Australian drivers can rely on AJ Tyres' mobile services, expert advice, and high-quality tyre selections to manage these challenges effectively. By combining informed tyre choices with regular checks and mindful driving, EV and hybrid owners can enjoy smooth, safe, and cost-efficient motoring—without burnt-out tyres slowing them down.