The question of whether winter tyres are necessary during the colder months is a topic of much discussion among EV owners across the country. To provide clarity on this matter, we reached out to the experts at BestDrive to answer five key questions and settle the debate.

1. What are winter tyres and how do they differ from standard?

Winter tyres are specially designed for cold weather, providing better grip and performance in temperatures below 7°C. They feature a softer rubber compound that remains flexible in the cold, unlike standard tyres, which harden and lose traction. Winter tyres also have deeper tread patterns to enhance grip on snow, ice and tiny sipes. The tyre sipe is a small, thin slit or groove cut into the tread blocks of a tyre. These sipes enhance traction by creating additional biting edges that grip the road, especially on slippery surfaces. Sipes improve a tyre's ability to channel water away from the contact patch, reducing the risk of aquaplaning. They are particularly prominent on winter tyres, where maximum grip is essential, but they can also be found on all-season and performance tyres. While these tyres excel in winter conditions, they are not ideal for warm weather as the softer rubber wears out faster.

2. How do I know if the tyres on my electric vehicle are winter tyres or not?

You can identify winter tyres on your electric vehicle by checking the sidewall of the tyres. Look for a symbol of a snowflake inside a mountain, often referred to as the "Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake" (3PMSF) symbol. This certifies that the tyres meet specific winter performance standards. Additionally, the tyres may have the "M+S" marking, which stands for "Mud and Snow," though it’s not a guarantee of full winter capability. Winter tyres also typically have deeper tread patterns and more sipes compared to standard or summer tyres.

3. Is it really necessary to change my EV tyres during the cold months?

In Ireland we don’t see it as a necessity. Yes, if temperatures frequently drop below 7°C it might be worth considering but we tend to experience pretty mild winters. All-season tyres are a great choice for your EV in our opinion. These tyres are designed to perform well in a variety of conditions, including wet roads and temperatures above and below 7°C, making them ideal for Ireland's moderate climate. They combine features of summer and winter tyres, offering decent grip in light snow and rain while maintaining durability and efficiency in milder weather. For EVs, all-season tyres with low rolling resistance and reinforced designs can enhance range and handle the additional weight of the battery.

4. Can I just put regular tyres on my electric vehicle or do they have to be specific?

While you can use regular tyres on your electric vehicle, it’s best to opt for EV-specific tyres. EV tyres are designed to handle the unique demands of electric cars, such as higher weight from batteries and instant torque. They feature reinforced structures, lower rolling resistance for improved range, and reduced noise for a quieter ride. Using standard tyres may reduce efficiency, wear out faster, and compromise handling. For safety and performance, choose tyres recommended for EVs.

5. How can I protect my tyres during the winter months?

To protect your tyres during winter, regularly check and maintain the correct tyre pressure, as colder temperatures can cause it to drop, affecting performance and safety. Keep an eye on the TPS light on the dash. A TPS monitor, or Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), is a safety feature in vehicles that continuously monitors the air pressure inside your tyres. It alerts you if the tyre pressure falls below or rises above the recommended level. Inspect the tread depth to ensure it meets the legal minimum (1.6mm in Ireland) or higher for better grip in wet or icy conditions. Clean your tyres to remove road salt and debris that can cause wear or damage. If you are unsure simply visit one of the many BestDrive garages around Ireland for a free tyre inspection.