Electric vehicles (EVs) may be more prone to wheel and tyre-related problems than conventional petrol-powered cars, according to a recent study, potentially leading to higher maintenance and repair costs for owners.
The research, conducted by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), analysed data from more than 47 million MOT tests carried out in the UK.
According to the study, electric cars were found to have around 1.8 times higher likelihood of wheel-related defects compared with petrol vehicles.
Researchers attributed the higher risk partly to the additional weight of EV batteries. Battery packs in some electric vehicles can weigh between 299 and 499 kilograms, accounting for around a quarter of the vehicle’s overall weight.
The additional weight can place greater pressure on wheels and tyres. Another contributing factor is the instant torque produced by electric motors.
Unlike conventional petrol engines, electric motors can deliver high torque almost immediately when acceleration begins, potentially placing greater forces on tyres and contributing to faster wear or damage over time.
The study also highlighted the additional costs that some EV owners may face when replacing tyres or carrying out related repairs.
Replacing premium or specialised tyres can cost owners hundreds of pounds, particularly when multiple tyres require replacement.
Read also: Locally manufactured hybrid electric vehicles exempted from sales tax
