Do EVs Need Special Tyres or Servicing? The Bald Truth.

EV Tyres really are different.

Let’s kill the myth right now: if you think you can slap any old rubber onto your electric vehicle and call it a day, you’re dreaming.

EVs need special tyres. Full stop. And yes, they need servicing too—just not the way your dad’s Commodore did. Here’s the no-nonsense, straight-talking answer every Aussie needs.

Why Electric Vehicles Need Special Tyres

EV tyres aren’t just another marketing gimmick. They’re engineered for the real-world punishment Aussie roads dish out—heavier cars, instant torque, and the relentless hunt for more range. Here’s why:

• Weight. EVs are fat. Batteries add bulk. That means more weight pounding your tyres every time you hit a pothole or speed bump. Standard tyres? They’ll wear out faster than a meat pie at the footy.

• Torque. EVs don’t muck around with acceleration. Full power, instantly. That shreds regular tyres. Special EV tyres have reinforced sidewalls and unique rubber compounds to handle the abuse.

• Noise. No engine roar means you’ll notice every bit of tyre noise. EV tyres use sound-deadening tech so you can enjoy the silence—or at least not lose your mind on the Hume.

• Rolling resistance. Lower is better. EV tyres are built to glide, squeezing every last kilometre from your battery. More range, less charging drama.

Can You Use Regular Tyres on an EV?

Technically, yes. Should you? Only if you like burning money. Regular tyres will wear out faster, reduce your range, and could even be unsafe if they don’t match the load rating.

If you’re desperate, make sure the tyre matches your car’s weight and speed specs—but you’re still short-changing your EV.

How Long Do EV Tyres Last?

Expect 25,000–40,000km if you’re sensible. Drive like a lunatic, or ignore maintenance, and you’ll be forking out for new rubber sooner. EVs chew through tyres faster than petrol cars if you’re heavy on the throttle. Don’t blame the car—blame your right foot.

Tyre Maintenance: Don’t Be Lazy

• Check pressure monthly. Under-inflated tyres kill range and wear out quicker.

• Rotate tyres every 10,000km. Keeps wear even. Don’t skip it.

• Wheel alignment. Hit a pothole? Get it checked. Misalignment means your tyres will wear out on the inside edge before you know it.

• Inspect for damage. Bulges, cuts, low tread—sort it out before you’re stranded.

Servicing: Yes, Your EV Still Needs It

Forget oil changes and spark plugs. EV servicing is about:

• Battery health checks—your car’s heart.

• Brake inspections—regenerative braking helps, but pads still wear out.

• Cooling system checks—batteries and motors hate overheating.

• Software updates—don’t ignore them. They can fix bugs, add features, and even improve range.

• High-voltage system inspections—leave it to the pros. Don’t fry yourself.

Service intervals? Most EVs want a check-up every 12–24 months or 10,000–20,000km. Some stretch it further, but don’t get cocky—skipping services is a mug’s game.

Do you use special EV tyres on your electric vehicle?

• 0%Yes, always
• 0%Sometimes, depends on price
• 0%No, just regular tyres
• 0%I don’t own an EV

You can vote for more than one answer.

The Blunt Bottom Line

• Yes, EVs need special tyres. Don’t cheap out.

• Yes, EVs need servicing. It’s different, but it matters.

• Ignore either, and you’ll pay for it—in cash, lost range, or a tow truck on the M1.

We’re Aussies. We don’t settle for second-best. Don’t treat your EV like a disposable gadget.

Give it the right tyres, keep up the servicing, and it’ll reward you with silent, punchy, guilt-free motoring. Anything less? You’re just screwing yourself.

Drive Change. Drive Electric