Tires for Electric Vehicles: What Changes and What Doesn't

An EV tire is still read like any other tire

Electric vehicles do not change how a tire is labeled. The sidewall still shows a size, a load index and a speed rating, and the same markings matter when you shop.

What changes is the set of demands placed on the tire. Electric vehicles tend to be heavy, they can deliver torque instantly, and they are quiet enough that tire noise stands out. Tire makers design around those facts.

Your starting point is not a marketing label. It is the tire information placard on the driver's side door frame and your owner's manual. Federal rules say the placard lists the vehicle maker's recommended cold tire inflation pressure and the original tire size.

Weight and load index

Industry press describes EVs as typically heavier than comparable gas-powered vehicles because of the battery. Tire makers therefore have to make sure tires of a given size can carry the extra weight.

The load index is the number that tells you how much a tire can carry. A Kelley Blue Book article calls it one of the most important things to check, and says a higher number means more weight capacity.

The general replacement rule is the same as for any vehicle. USTMA says a replacement tire should match the size, load index and speed rating recommended by the vehicle or tire maker. It should not be of a smaller size or load-carrying capacity than what was originally specified.

The HL marking

Some tires carry a prefix before the size on the sidewall, such as HL. USTMA calls this a category of Extra Load tires known as High Load Capacity tires, with more load capacity than typical Extra Load tires at the same reference pressure.

USTMA says the driving force is vehicle makers developing heavier vehicles on existing platforms, so they cannot move to larger tires. Electrification is a factor, but HL tires are not limited to electric vehicles.

In USTMA's example for a 245/40R19 size, the standard, extra load and HL versions have load indexes of 94Y, 98Y and 101Y. The same size can therefore carry different loads depending on its category. You can see how that size is explained on our 245/40R19 size page, which is used here only as an example of reading a size.

USTMA recommends replacing an HL tire with an HL tire of equal size and load-carrying capacity. It also warns that the range of approved rim widths for HL tires may differ from standard-load or other extra-load tires. Always check with the vehicle maker first.

Torque, wear and rotation

EVs deliver torque at once, and press coverage says this can increase tire wear. Tire designs aim to answer that with stiffer tread blocks and more robust construction.

How fast tires wear on an EV depends on the vehicle, the tire and how you drive. A regular check of tread depth is the way to see how yours is doing.

For rotation, follow your owner's manual. USTMA says that if no period is specified, it recommends every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. It also says that once tread is worn to 2/32 of an inch, it is time to visit a tire shop.

Rolling resistance and range

Tire makers talk about rolling resistance because it affects how much energy it takes to keep a vehicle moving. Industry press says low-rolling-resistance tires can help range, and that improvements in rolling resistance have a direct impact on the vehicle.

Rolling resistance is one of several qualities a tire has to balance. Grip, wear, noise and cost matter too. Compare the maker's information for each tire to see how it balances them.

Do not pick a tire on one claim alone. Compare specific tires on the full set of qualities, and check the size and load index first.

Noise

With no engine masking sound, tire noise is more noticeable. Industry press and Kelley Blue Book both say manufacturers use measures such as a foam layer inside the tire to reduce it.

If a tire has foam inside, ask the shop and check the tire maker's instructions for repair and mounting.

Do you need an EV-specific tire?

There is a difference between what is recommended and what is required. A Kelley Blue Book article says an EV will still run on regular tires, but advises against it if possible. It cites effects on handling and wear.

Your vehicle maker is the authority on what is acceptable. Match the placard size, then confirm the load index and speed rating. Then ask a tire professional whether the specific tire suits your vehicle.

If you are replacing like for like, the original size is the easiest place to start. The same Kelley Blue Book article says it should be easy to shop for the original size unless you want to change sizes or buy aftermarket wheels.

Changing sizes on an EV

If you change wheel or tire size, keep the overall diameter close to the original. Industry press says this avoids problems with speedometer calibration, ABS, traction control and electronic stability control. A technical bulletin from one tire maker adds that four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles need all four tires closely matched in diameter.

Our tire size calculator shows diameter and speedometer difference for two sizes. It does not tell you whether a size is approved for your vehicle, and a diameter match says nothing about load. Ask the vehicle maker or a tire professional. Also ask whether a different size could affect driver-assistance systems or range on your vehicle.

Replacing two tires or four

USTMA recommends replacing all four tires at the same time. If you replace two, it says to put the new ones on the rear axle. Check your owner's manual first, particularly if your EV has all-wheel drive.

What to ask the shop

• What does the door placard say for size, load index and speed rating?
• Is the tire I'm considering HL, XL or standard load, and does that match my vehicle's requirement?
• Does the shop service the type of sensors and any foam or sealant layer in this tire?
• What rotation schedule do you recommend for my vehicle?

Use the tire finder to search by vehicle or size, or browse our vehicle pages. Always confirm your size on the tire sidewall or door placard before you buy.