Expert reveals why EVs and hybrids need tires replaced more often than gas cars

An expert has revealed the reason why EVs and hybrids need their tires replaced more frequently than gas cars.

On average, those with electric vehicles will end up at the shop getting their tires changed at twice the rate of their ICE counterparts.

Ryan Pszczolkowski, an expert at Consumer Reports, spoke to WMTW-TV News about why this was the case.

The reason he gave may not be what you expect.

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Why EVs and hybrids are going through tires quicker than gas cars

When people decide to make the switch from gas cars to EVs, cost is usually at the top of their list of reasons.

And while it’s true that EV users generally spend less on powering their car, other costs have to be taken into account.

Namely, the number of tire changes that they go through.

WMTW-TV in Maine aired a special report around this trend, speaking to Ryan Pszczolkowski, an expert at Consumer Reports.

“A tire’s worst enemy for wear is weight and horsepower,” Pszczolkowski said.

EVs and hybrids are on average 20 percent heavier than gas cars, so you can see where this is going.

One mechanic likened the average EV to a 3/4 ton truck, so it’s no wonder EVs are going through tires like hot cakes.

Data compiled by Recharged shows that electric cars are using more tires.

Tire makers have said that EVs typically wear tires 15 to 20 percent faster than similar gas cars, with the average tire life falling somewhere between 20,000 and 30,000 miles.

And when it comes to flat tires, EVs are reportedly twice as likely to experience this, according to roadside-assistance data.

There’s no end in sight for the comparisons between different types of cars

It feels like everywhere you look, people are comparing electric cars to ICE cars.

Admittedly, it’s understandable why there’s so much scrutiny – cars cost a lot of money, and you want to consider everything when buying.

The most pressing case for going electric is that it’s better for the environment, even down to something like dust pollution.

But there are other factors that come into consideration.

For example, one study found that electric car owners switched their vehicles out every three years on average, compared to 12 years for gas cars.

There’s a lot to weigh up, and it’s important that people feel like they’re making an informed decision.

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