We don’t always realize it, but about a quarter of our energy consumption comes from tires. Therefore, the size, rolling resistance and quality of tires greatly affect the range of vehicles. Whether they are electric or not.
In addition to these features, an electric vehicle has other features. It’s heavy, powerful (its torque unleashes instantly) and quiet. Only these parameters justify the design of certain tires, including winter ones.
By reducing the rolling resistance, Michelin estimates that it is possible to obtain an additional autonomy of 30 and 50 kilometers using the tires. “But that’s not our only concern,” says Russell Shepherd, director of technical communications at Michelin. “Because of its weight, its lively acceleration and the power of its regenerative braking, the electric vehicle faces many technical challenges. First, it wears its tires more quickly. »
We need to design rubbers that are more resistant to abrasion, but without compromising the expected performance of the vehicle in terms of road holding.
Russell Shepherd, Director of Technical Communications at Michelin
“Not at all,” said our interlocutor, laughing. The silence of an electric vehicle increases road noise. »
There are several solutions for this, including injecting polyurethane foam inside the tire or isolating it with a membrane.
More expensive insurance
The question probably comes up often because the answer is never clear. Let’s start from the following premise: The more expensive a vehicle is to replace, the more expensive it is to insure. Electric vehicle batteries are not only expensive to replace in the event of a disaster, but also difficult to obtain. Add to that the cost inherent in a more specialized workforce, and you have all the factors you need to understand the high cost of the premium.
To be sure, it is a good idea to request a quote from three insurance companies. When doing so, find out if they offer discounts for low- or zero-emission vehicles (there are a few more).