Buying tires for hybrid and electric SUVs is not the same as buying tires for regular combustion engine cars or SUVs. The reason being that there are several factors that set them apart. One big difference between hybrid or electric SUVs compared to regular combustion engine SUVs is that they are unique in that they are heavier than traditional SUVs as they have battery packs. This means that grip and traction is even more important as the additional weight requires longer braking distance. It is also important to respect the manufacturer’s recommended tire dimensions for the make and model of your hybrid or electric SUV. In addition, it is also important to get tires with low rolling resistance to allow for the best fuel efficiency, this is after all why most people invest in electric or hybrid vehicles. Even though electric vehicles don’t use fuel, low rolling resistance saves energy which allows them to go further on each charge.
Hybrid and electric SUVs often come equipped with low rolling resistance tires, such as SUV all-season tires, straight from the factory. This allows the hybrid or electric cars to be more fuel efficient by being able to travel further on each charge. Another advantage of all-season tires is that they can be used throughout the year, at least if you live in an area with mild winters. The reason they should not be used in areas with severe winter weather is because the all-season tires do not hold the “Three Peak Mountain Snowflake” emblem which indicates that the tire has met required performance criteria in snow testing and thereby can be considered severe snow service rated.
If living in an area with severe winter weather and you prefer keeping one set of tires throughout the year then you should consider all-weather tires. If opting for all-weather tires for your SUV, then the Nokian WR G4 SUV would be a good option as this versatile tire optimally combines high-performance, all-season handling while allowing for reliable winter grip, making it a true all-weather tire. These tires also come recommended for hybrid or electric SUVs allowing for uncompromising performance, excellent grip and traction even with the additional weight of hybrid and electric SUVs. They are designed with many new innovations like the “Aramid Sidewall Technology” which improves durability while protecting against cuts, heavy siping of the tread blocks to allow maximum contact with the surface to increase grip on snow and slush, and the “Groove Lifts” on the tread blocks ensures that the tire behaves in a controlled and stable manner on dry roads as well.
If living in an area with mild weather year-round then it would be possible to consider SUV all-season tires. When choosing tires for electric or hybrid SUVs keep in mind what kind of driving you will be doing and what kind of road conditions you will be encountering while buying tires recommended for electric or hybrid SUVs.
For more information on tires for hybrid or electric SUVs visit nokiantires.com