Research carried out by Michelin has shown that drivers of electric cars (EVs) planning to drive over the festive period could boost their battery range by up to 10% when using EV-specific tyres1.
With more than half of drivers planning to drive over the festive period (52%) according to a recent survey by Michelin2, EV drivers could potentially gain an extra 8.3 million miles3 in battery range – equivalent to 25.7 miles per vehicle on average – by using EV-specific tyres.
Yet, as energy prices surge, further analysis of the survey results showed that most drivers are unaware that EV-specific tyres are available, with three-quarters (72%) of drivers admitting to being totally in the dark on the topic and how the tyres are beneficial.
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite, EV-specific tyres such as MICHELIN Pilot Sport EV and MICHELIN e.Primacy, can offer EV drivers planning to hit the road in the coming weeks a cost-effective way of reaching their loved ones in time to celebrate the festive season.
For more unpredictable conditions, such as snow or ice, all-season tyres such as MICHELIN CrossClimate 2 and MICHELIN CrossClimate 2 SUV also meet the requirements for EVs. These all-season tyres share features, such as low rolling resistance, with EV-specific tyres and can therefore preserve battery range for year-round driving.
John Howe, Managing Director for UK and Ireland at Michelin, said, “With the festive period in sight, everyone is thinking about how best to get home to visit their friends and relatives. Drivers are making this decision in the context of a cost-of-living crisis and continued train strikes, so are looking for any relief available to them.
“EV-specific tyres offer a solution. Not only can they enhance battery range, allowing drivers to travel further per charge, but these tyres last longer on an electric car than a standard tyre.”
Whilst only 28% of respondents were aware of EV-specific tyres, Londoners proved to be the most clued-up with more than half (54%) of those polled from the city knowing of the technology. In comparison, the remaining UK regions ranged from 17% in Yorkshire and the Humber, to 32% in the North East, indicating a significant disparity in EV knowledge between the UK’s most populated city and the rest of the country.
Further research also revealed that the increase to battery range is viewed by respondents as the main benefit of EV-specific tyres (35% of drivers), with the second most important benefit proving to be that EV-specific tyres last longer on an EV than a standard tyre (one in five respondents).
In cold weather, electric cars are known to lose battery range, but tyres with range-boosting credentials could help to offset this loss in mileage.
John Howe continued, “A great deal of innovation and research goes into producing a tyre that can increase the range of an electric car. It requires the incorporation of several new tyre technologies to lower rolling resistance, increase efficiency and optimise the handling characteristics of electric cars.
“However, to truly get the most out of an EV, drivers should ensure they are making use of every opportunity available to them. To this end, we have provided our expert-recommended Top Tips for increasing EV battery range.”
Michelin’s top tips for increased ev range
- DRIVE MORE SLOWLY AND SMOOTHLY
Electric cars are notoriously faster off the line than their petrol or diesel equivalents, but it is wise to limit full throttle accelerations to not only stay safe on winter roads, but also to extend your EV’s range. Where possible, keep your speed under 60 mph; as speeds increase, drag and rolling resistance increases too. Utilise your car’s “Eco” mode, if it has one.
- USE EV-SPECIFIC TYRES
Electric cars can perform with a suitable standard tyre – they don’t have to be EV-specific tyres. However, if you are keen to maximise range, reduce noise levels or embrace the full performance of your car, EV-specific tyres like the MICHELIN Pilot Sport EV and the MICHELIN e.Primacy can allow you to travel further on a full charge. Whichever tyres you choose, make sure they are inflated according to the manufacturer’s guidance, as improperly inflated tyres can reduce range, accelerate wear and pose a safety risk.
- MAKE THE MOST OF REGENERATIVE BRAKING
Use your EV’s regenerative braking function as you come to a stop to harness the energy generated as the car slows down. By using the brake pedal less and using regenerative braking instead, you can extend the range of your car.
- ONLY USE THE HEATER WHEN YOU NEED IT
The heating system can drain your EV’s battery – switch it off if you don’t need it. Some EVs allow the driver to pre-heat the car while it’s plugged in, but even this can consume energy before your journey has begun, so be mindful of this when aiming for the maximum range from your EV in winter.
- TRAVEL LIGHT AND REMOVE THE ROOF RACK
Reducing a vehicle’s weight will improve efficiency and therefore range. So, remove any unnecessary items from the back seats or the boot, especially if they are weighty. Roof racks and other accessories will cause additional aerodynamic drag which will reduce your EV’s range, especially at high speeds when drag increases significantly.
- CHECK THE LABELS ON YOUR TYRES
On new tyres, the EU Labelling can indicate the specific qualities that a tyre possesses. For example, choosing a tyre rated A or B for rolling resistance will help you to maximise the range of your EV.
*Article Source: https://news.michelin.co.uk/
