Electric vehicle owners are facing a hidden cost: significantly increased tire wear. A novel study by Kwik Fit, a leading UK automotive maintenance company, reveals that electric cars consume tires 30% more quickly than their gasoline or diesel counterparts. The Tesla Model 3 topped the list as the vehicle most frequently requiring tire replacement, needing repairs in 54 locations across the UK.
Kwik Fit’s Maintenance Index 2025 analyzed data from over two million vehicles serviced at its 600+ centers. The study ranked models based on the number of locations where tire repairs were most often needed. Following the Tesla Model 3, the Citroën Berlingo required tire changes in 24 locations, although the Tesla Model Y was third, with issues reported in 16 locations. Other models frequently needing tire attention included the Mercedes CLA, Volvo XC40, and BMW 4 Series.
The increased tire wear isn’t simply a matter of driving distance. While a typical internal combustion engine vehicle can travel between 65,000 and 80,000 kilometers on a single set of tires, electric vehicles generally manage between 40,000 and 55,000 kilometers. High-performance electric vehicles may see tire life reduced to as little as 25,000 to 40,000 kilometers.
Several factors contribute to this accelerated wear. Electric vehicle tires are specifically engineered for the demands of electric powertrains, resulting in a 20-30% price increase compared to standard tires. These tires are designed to handle the additional weight of the battery packs, reduce road noise, optimize range, and provide enhanced durability and lateral stiffness.
However, the primary driver of increased wear is the instant torque delivered by electric motors. “The instant torque of electric cars, combined with their higher weight, puts more pressure on the tires,” explained Elliott Smith, a specialist at Kwik Fit, in an interview with Revista Carros. “Plus, many drivers seize advantage of the quick acceleration, which further increases wear.” The study found that the increased weight of the battery and the immediate availability of maximum power lead to greater weight transfer during acceleration, accelerating tire degradation.
A Tesla Model 3’s weight varies depending on the version and equipment, but typically ranges between 1,761 and 1,824 kilograms. According to the Automóvel Clube de Portugal (ACP), electric vehicles can be up to 300 kilograms heavier than comparable diesel or gasoline cars.
The increased tire consumption also raises environmental concerns. Pedro Carteiro, from the Associação Terrestre Sustentável, noted that ZERO, a Portuguese environmental organization, has advocated for a vehicle tax system that penalizes heavier vehicles, anticipating that increased tire replacement will lead to more waste. The upcoming EU Circular Economy Law, slated for 2026, is expected to significantly alter the handling of end-of-life tires within the European Union.
While tires represent a significant cost, electric vehicles offer offsetting maintenance benefits. With fewer moving parts, they eliminate the need for oil changes, spark plug replacements, and fuel filter maintenance. Consumer Reports indicates that owners of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles pay approximately 50% less for overall maintenance and repairs compared to those with internal combustion engines. Brake life is also extended, lasting two to three times longer due to regenerative braking, which can handle 70-90% of deceleration. However, infrequent use of regenerative braking can lead to corrosion or oxidation of brake components.
To mitigate tire wear, Carteiro recommends opting for lighter vehicle models, maintaining proper tire pressure (checked monthly), avoiding overloading the vehicle, rotating tires every 10,000 kilometers, regularly checking wheel alignment, avoiding road hazards, choosing reputable tire brands, and minimizing rapid acceleration.