We can all agree that Tesla cars are relatively distinctive compared to the usual Civic. The improvements go far beyond the readily apparent autopilot, giant displays, and electric powertrains.
The tires are one of those changes, which may not seem to make sense at first since tires are, after all, just tires. However, the weight, handling, and power delivery characteristics of electric vehicles are noticeably different, necessitating the use of alternative tires.
Tesla tires vary from other tires, with the key variations being the tread’s Depth and aerodynamics, rolling resistance, noise levels, weight rating, and rubber composition.
Tesla and Regular Tires: 6 Differences
1. Better Tread Aerodynamics
It may surprise you that there is such a thing as tire tread aerodynamics. A lot can be done to increase aerodynamic drag since tires on an average automobile account for 25% of it. Even while the Tesla tires are not much more aerodynamic than the average ones, any improvement in the economy, even one percent, is important.
2. Tesla Tires Make Less Noise
Because engine and exhaust noise largely mask tire noise in most cars, it is not very noticeable. The biggest source of noise pollution, however, is the tires since the powertrain of an electric vehicle produces almost no noise. Tesla tires contain specifically created tread patterns, and an internal foam insert to minimize tire noise.
The extremely thick foam insert, which resembles the internal sound-deadening foam, is attached to the inside of the tire, under the treads. While there is a small amount of unsprung weight added by the foam, it is not enough to be noticeable and decreases tire noise by up to 9db.
3. Tread Depth
Electric cars often wear out their tires significantly more rapidly since they can instantaneously transmit 100% of their torque to the tires. Additionally, the weight of the Tesla and the frequent displays of its performance by its owners do not help.
Additionally, even though a set of four tires for a Tesla costs around $1,200, the deeper tread will cost less in the long run than regular, more affordable tires. Additionally, a deeper tread often results in greater traction, which improves performance and increases safety.
4. Lower Rolling Resistance
The rolling resistance of each tire varies, and tire makers are continually working to reduce rolling resistance while keeping grip levels constant. This is crucial for electric vehicles since a greater rolling resistance equates to a reduced range. Tesla tires employ smaller tread blocks and unique rubber mixtures to reduce rolling resistance.
I cannot estimate how much battery energy a low-resistance tire will save at this time. The U.S. Department of Energy claims they can reduce ICE automobile fuel usage by up to 10%.
5. Weight Rating
Considering that EVs are much heavier than equivalent-sized ICE cars, they need tires that can handle that weight. Additionally, although the Tesla tire size with the necessary rating already exists, they are often only used on considerably larger automobiles, such as SUVs.
For instance, the Car 3, the smallest Tesla model, needs tires with a 98-load index. When a tire has a 98-load index, it can support 1,653 lbs. And a 65 load index, or 639 lbs, is needed for the typical passenger vehicle, which is not much smaller than the Model 3.
6. Special Rubber Compound
The rubber composition is responsible for every tire attribute, including rolling resistance, grip, wear index, etc. Although Tesla does not produce tires internally, tire suppliers must get permission to mark their goods with the Tesla logo.
Naturally, rubber composition is one of the key determining criteria in whether or not tire companies can promote a certain product as a Tesla tire. A T0, T2, or T3 grade is given to any tire that meets Tesla’s specifications.
What Are Tesla Tires (T0, T1, T2)
It is common knowledge that practically all automakers have their tire labels and logo for tires that have received OE approval. It is a start sign for BMW, a PO symbol for Porsche, a JLR symbol for Jaguar, etc. These designations are T0, T1, and T2 for Tesla.
Tesla does not specify the distinctions between any of those categories, however. According to certain tire dealers, the T0 is for the Model 3 or other smaller versions, such as the Y. The Model S and Model X are the only vehicles that can use the T1. The T2 is lastly reserved just for the Model S Plaid.
However, some sources claim that the various numerals refer to various tire generations, with T0 being the oldest and T2 being the most recent. However, as Tesla has not yet commented on the topic, we cannot verify any of these hypotheses. In any event, your owner’s handbook or the Tesla repair facility should be able to inform you which of these tires you should use. There are a few OE-approved tires here as well.
Tesla Tires:
- Pirelli SCORPION™ ZERO™ ASIMMETRICO (Urban) (Summer)
- Pirelli SCORPION™ ZERO ALL-SEASON (Noise Cancelling) (All-Season)
- Michelin Latitude Sport 3 Acoustic
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Acoustic
- Michelin Pilot Sport 3 T0
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S T0
- Pirelli PZero XL (PZ4)
- Conti SportContact 5p
- Hankook Ventus S1 EVO2
- Continental PROCONTACT RX
- Primacy mxm4
Fixing Tesla Tires
According to some reports, a Tesla tire that has been punctured cannot be fixed. And while it could be true for certain puncture repair techniques, it is not true for all of them. You may repair a Tesla tire using a tire plug in the same manner as you would any other tire, so long as the sidewall is not punctured.
Tire patches will be relatively challenging since Tesla tires have an inside foam liner. This is because you would need to cut a portion of the lining, apply the patch, and then glue the lining back on. On the other hand, leaving that foam piece in would lead to tire imbalance and noise while driving.
A Tesla does not come with a spare tire or an inflator kit to save weight and storage space. Tesla wants you to depend on their 24-hour roadside support instead, but this service is only cost-free while the vehicle is still covered by its guarantee. Tesla sells an emergency tire repair kit for $70 as a workaround.
However, an aftermarket repair kit will function just as well. The last alternative is to purchase a complete aftermarket spare tire package. These have a vehicle jack, a space-saving wheel, and all the necessary equipment and are made specifically for a Tesla. Those are a little more costly than repair kits, but you get a lot more for your money.
What Tire Brand Does Tesla Use?
Tesla vehicles ship with Michelin tires. However, several other tire producers, including Hankook, Yokohama, Bridgestone, Continental, and Goodyear, provide Tesla-approved tires (T0, T1, T2).
Why Do Tesla Tires Fade So Quickly?
The driver’s reckless use of the throttle is the primary cause of a Tesla tire wearing out more quickly than usual. Like other EVs, the Tesla possesses rapid torque, which may damage tires when accelerating quickly. Another factor is that Teslas are much heavier than comparable vehicles of similar size.
What Is the Cost of a Tesla Tire?
For a Model S, a pair of Continental Procontact RX tires costs around $1,100. However, models, trims, and tire manufacturers have different pricing ranges. Consequently, a new set of tires might range from $440 to $2,000 in price.
Does Tesla Have a Flat Tire?
A flat tire cannot be used to power a Tesla. Run-flat tires are not yet standard on Tesla vehicles, nor are there any aftermarket run-flats certified by Tesla. This implies that driving on a flat tire can severely damage your wheels, the tire, and other parts. It is also quite unsafe.
Do All Four Tires on a Tesla Need to Be Replaced?
Yes, you should replace all four tires once if you change them due to wear and age. Tesla advises changing your tires in pairs per axle if you have a puncture or other damage. The rear tires should remain in place if one of the front tires has to be replaced.
How long should a Tesla tyre last?
The factory-installed tires, according to Tesla, are warrantied for three years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. But a lot depends on how you drive; some owners claim their tires lasted 40,000 miles, while others claim they only lasted 20,000.
Does the Tesla warranty cover tires?
No, Tesla does not provide a warranty on the tires. You will get a free tow from Roadside Assistance for up to 50 miles, after which you are responsible for paying for any repairs or new tires. Additionally, you are only eligible for a free tow if a warranty covers your Tesla.
Do Tesla tires need to be balanced?
Yes, you must balance the tires on your Tesla. Normally, tires are balanced when they are changed, but Tesla advises doing it once a year or every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. Additionally, passionate and quick drivers are urged to balance the tires more often.
Conclusion
Finally, Tesla tires are unique and have their own OE clearance marks, much like most other automakers. T0, T1, and T2 are the Tesla tyre tags. Additionally, Tesla has unique tire specifications, much like other automakers. These specifications include needing them to be noisier, have a greater weight rating, and have deeper tread depth.
And to reduce rolling resistance and enhance tread aerodynamics, those attributes are accomplished using a specific thread design. A unique rubber compound and the unique foam inserts we mentioned are also important.
