Why are electric cars not equipped with spare tires?
Unlike conventional cars, electric car sales are generally not equipped with spare tires. This makes some users feel worried if they experience a punctured tire on the way.
However, this decision is actually not without reason and there are technical considerations behind it. Well, to understand more clearly Why are electric cars not equipped with spare tires?, take a look at the following article.
Why are electric cars not equipped with spare tires?
Electric cars usually do not provide spare tires due to efficiency and design considerations. First, the spare tire has an additional weight of about 25-50 kg. This extra weight can reduce battery efficiency so that the car mileage is reduced. For a vehicle that relies heavily on battery power, every kilogram of weight is certainly very meaningful, right?
In addition, most of the space in the electric car is already used for large-capacity batteries. If you have to add a spare tire, it can reduce the luggage space or even disrupt the structure of the car body. Electric car manufacturers finally chose to remove the spare tire so that the design remains compact, light weight, and production costs can be reduced. So, the main reason is not because of forgetfulness or carelessness, but technical matters related to efficiency.
The weight of the spare tire also affects the mileage of the electric car
Beyond the explanation above, the embedding of a spare tire can also affect the mileage of an electric car. According to some analyzes, removing the spare tire and supporting equipment can increase the mileage by about 15-25 km in a car with a battery capacity of 60 kWh. That means, by reducing the energy burden expended by an electric motor, it can be more efficient so you can travel further.
Although this figure looks small, every additional kilometer is very valuable. Moreover, many drivers are still worried about the limitations Charging Station. Therefore, manufacturers prefer to provide other alternatives such as emergency tire repair kits or Run-Flat which can still be used even though it is deflated compared to having to add weight with the spare.
the difference between electric car tires and ordinary cars
In addition to the spare tire business, electric car tires also have different characteristics from conventional car tires. This is because electric cars have unique performance and efficiency demands. Here are some of the differences between electric car tires and ordinary cars that you need to know:
Reinforced loads and structures
An electric car carries a large battery that can weigh hundreds of kilograms. Therefore, the EV tires are designed to be more sturdy with load index is high in order to be able to withstand the extra load.
Rolling Resistance low
Electric car tires use low rolling resistance (LRR) technology which makes friction with the road more minimal. As a result, energy consumption is more efficient and the mileage can increase.
Better traction control
The electric motor generates instant torque from the start of the car moving. Well, EV tires must have a strong grip so that they don’t slip easily when accelerating.
Better sound damping
Considering the electric car is almost without the engine sound, the tire noise will be more pronounced. For this reason, EV tires are designed with a special tread pattern and damping materials to keep the cabin calm.
Lighter and wear-resistant material
EV tires are made of premium materials such as silica and light fiber so that they are durable, do not wear out quickly, and remain efficient.
High heat resistance
Regenerative energy and high torque make the temperature of the EV tire rise faster. So, the tires of this car are designed to be heat resistant and at the same time safer.
more expensive price
Using special materials and technology, the price of electric car tires tends to be higher than ordinary car tires. However, the price is comparable to the performance and efficiency provided.
So, now you know the reason why electric cars are not equipped with spare tires. This is not due to the negligence of the manufacturer, but to maintain energy efficiency, save space, and reduce production costs. Moreover, the weight of the spare tire can reduce the mileage of electric cars so that manufacturers prefer other alternatives.
FAQ about Why Electric Cars Are Not Equipped With Spare Tires
1. Why do electric cars generally do not have spare tires?
To save space and keep the vehicle’s weight light.
2. Does the weight affect the electric car?
Yes, the lighter the car, the more energy efficient and the longer the mileage.
3. If the tire is punctured, what is the solution?
Usually provided an emergency tire patch kit or run-flat tires.
4. Don’t all electric cars have spare tires?
Not all, but most manufacturers choose to eliminate it for the sake of efficiency.
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