For this segment of our Meet the Experts series, we visited BestDrive by Continental to delve into their services and the crucial importance of tyre safety for EVs. With the rise of electric vehicles on Irish roads, new considerations in tyre safety have emerged. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, EVs have unique characteristics that significantly impact tyre performance and safety. To understand these differences better, we spoke with Gerard Cleary from BestDrive.

What are the unique challenges for EV Tyres?

The first thing to factor in is the considerable weight increase. Electric vehicles are generally heavier than their petrol or diesel counterparts due to the weight of the batteries. This additional mass puts more stress on the tyres, which can lead to increased wear and tear. Tyres for EVs need to be constructed from stronger materials and have reinforced structures to handle the extra weight without compromising safety or performance.

Vehicle performance is another factor because EVs tend to deliver instant torque, which means that the power is available immediately when the driver accelerates. This characteristic can cause greater strain on the tyres, especially during rapid acceleration. It is essential that EV tyres have robust tread patterns and durable rubber compounds to handle the stress without resulting in excessive wear.

Naturally electric vehicles are quieter than traditional vehicles, making tyre noise more noticeable. EV tyres are often designed with noise-reducing technologies, such as specialised tread patterns and foam inserts, to maintain a quiet cabin environment. This focus on noise reduction must be balanced with safety features to ensure that the tyres provide adequate traction and handling.

What maintenance and safety practices should you be aware of?

It’s important to get into the habit of regular inspections. Checking your tyres is crucial for maintaining safety in electric vehicles. Drivers should inspect for signs of wear, such as uneven tread patterns, cracks, or bulges once a month or at least once a quarter. Early detection of tyre issues can prevent accidents and prolong the lifespan of the tyres. Worn tyres significantly reduce braking distances in the dry and even more so in the wet.

Another simple check that should be added to your to-do list is a pressure test! Proper tyre inflation to the correct tyre pressure is essential for safety and efficiency. Under-inflated tyres can lead to increased rolling resistance, reduced range, and higher risk of blowouts. Keep an eye on the tyre pressure monitoring warning light. Over-inflated tyres on the other hand, can reduce traction and cause uneven wear. EV owners should regularly check and maintain tyre pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendations. You would be surprised what impact under inflated tyres can have on range. A free Best Drive inspection will help ensure that all tyres wear evenly and maintain their grip and handling characteristics.

Gerard Cleary from BestDrive adds that “for motorists, one of, if not the most important safety feature on a vehicle is a tyre! We have all had those scary moments as drivers when someone pulls out in front of you, or maybe you lose grip in the rain, and you get that anxiety feeling of will I stop in time! The RSA tells us that on average, 14 families each year are devastated by the loss of a wife, husband, mother, father, son, daughter, brother, sister, or relation, and this number does not include life-changing or serious injuries. Safety has to be paramount in the selection criteria when purchasing a tyre. So, for BestDrive, we offer two simple pointers to ensure you are not part of the statistics:

• Please get your tyres checked by a professional regularly – All you need to know is, they must be checked.
• Tyres are not just black and round – They are a safety feature for all vehicles, especially EVs, which BestDrive by Continental are experts in!”

Are there any environmental issues to consider?

Well, not that will directly impact you per se, but it is worth understanding the automotive industry is moving towards sustainability and many tyre manufacturers such as Continental, are using eco-friendly materials. This includes natural rubber, recycled materials and innovative compounds that reduce environmental impact without compromising performance or safety.

Your local Best Drive branch understands how to treat the disposal of worn-out tyres to minimise environmental challenges. Tyre manufacturers and recycling companies are developing methods to recycle and repurpose old tyres, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. Proper recycling practices are essential to minimise the environmental footprint that EV tyres would otherwise leave.

Are there any driving tips you should be aware of?

A smooth driving style is often key to tyre longevity and safety. Easy acceleration, cornering with no aggressive steering inputs and limiting severe braking will help prolong tyre life. Leave yourself more journey time so you can make better use of your regenerative braking and remember, driving within the speed limits will vastly increase safety! As the adoption of EVs continues to grow, so too will the advancements in tyre technology, paving the way for safer and more sustainable transportation solutions.