Choosing low rolling resistance tires for hybrid and electric SUVs
Choosing low rolling resistance tires is an important choice for hybrid and electrical SUVs as these tires are designed to reduce energy loss and thereby increase fuel efficiency or in the case of an electrical SUV, the distance that it can travel on 1 charge. Rolling resistance is the force that works against the forward motion of the vehicle. In other words, the combination of forces that work against the forward motion of your vehicle. Things like the weight of the vehicle, gravity, inertia, air drag and the amount of friction between the tires and the road surface all play a part. They are also known as environmentally friendly tires or fuel-efficient tires.
Some factors that affect the rolling resistance is the tread pattern, size of the tire and the tire compound. Tread pattern has a significant impact on the rolling resistance. In general, the more aggressive the tread pattern the higher the rolling resistance. Another factor affecting the rolling resistance is the tire compound. Many manufacturers are now adding silica and oils to the traditional tire compound to lower the rolling resistance while not sacrificing traction. The size of the tires also affects the rolling resistance with wider tires having higher rolling resistance. In general, when buying tires for a hybrid or electrical SUV it is important to consider the manufacturers recommended tire dimensions. This will assure the best performing tire size for your vehicle.
Taking this into consideration the lowest rolling resistance would be tires with the least aggressive tread, with low rolling resistance rubber compounds as well as the recommended tire size for your vehicle. In general SUV all-season tires have lower rolling resistance than either SUV all-weather tires or SUV winter tires. This is because the two latter choices have more aggressive tread to allow for better grip and traction on ice and snow. When in the market for low rolling resistance tires it is also important to understand the difference between regular combustion engine and hybrid or electric SUVs. Both hybrid or electrical SUVs are unique in that they are heavier than traditional cars which makes grip and traction even more important as the additional weight requires longer braking distance.
The choice of what kind of tires to get depends on what kind of driving you will be doing and where you live. If the area where you live experiences mild weather year-round then the better choice would be to keep all-season tires on your vehicle. If the area where you live encounters severe winter weather in the winter, then you would need to consider either SUV winter tires in the winter or all-weather tires. Both these tires have the “Three Peak Mountain Snowflake” symbol indicating their approved use in winter.
When choosing tires for electrical or hybrid SUVs make sure to keep to the manufacturer’s recommended size tires for your make and model and to buy low rolling resistance tires.
For more information on tires for hybrid or electric SUVs visit: nokiantires.com
