EV Development Provides Boost for Tyre Tech

The auto industry is going through some changes right now, not least in part due to the evolution of electric vehicles (EVs)- and the most notable change we’re seeing is in the tyres. A recent report by Automotive News suggests that tyre manufacturers are now looking at EVs to inspire the next generation of tyres for other types of vehicles too.

It’s believed that the distinctive features of EVs could be utilised for tyre performance on other models; electric motors have the capability to instantly send power to tyres the moment the pedal is pressed, and now manufacturers are keen to analyse performance, alongside wear and tear under normal driving conditions- whether the vehicle is electric or not.

But there are some important considerations manufacturers must make.

Weight should be considered, especially since the motors used in EVs make them heavier overall; adaptation to the entire process is essential for each model. For example, the tyres used for small internal combustion engine (ICE) cars won’t work on small electric models that have a much higher mass. Its also crucial to keep in mind that rolling resistance can be a factor: grip needs to deliver the perfect combination of efficiency and traction to ensure not only safety, but a smooth drive too.

Tyre inspections are another important consideration, especially as EVs are likely to need fewer inspections overall, leaving it up to the driver to be able to spot signs of wear or potential damage.

In order to move forward with the new developments, tyre companies now need to gather data on development purposes and advanced driver alerts, moving way beyond simply tracking tyre pressure. Major brands are said to be working on highly capable sensors that will monitor temperature, as well as risk of punctures, plus they’ll be able to notify drivers of issues that need addressing. Systems are also being developed by Goodyear to be able to analyse road friction, with the hopes of notifying the driver on tyre grip levels when necessary.

The Automotive News report also highlights a company called Tactile Mobile, who are working on systems to deliver real-time analysis of tyre conditions- including wear, balance, pressure, temperatures, grip and the risk of potential faults. Though in its infancy, this system demonstrates the evolution of the tyre companies right now, and how manufacturers need to revise former strategies to stay ahead of the game in an increasingly electric world.