Electric trucks are rapidly changing the automotive landscape, offering impressive power and reduced emissions. However, when it comes to equipping these vehicles, particularly with tires, owners need to consider factors that go beyond traditional truck tire choices. Finding the Best Ev Truck tire involves a balance between rugged capability and the unique demands of electric powertrains.
One crucial aspect is understanding tire ratings in the context of an EV truck. Truck tires are typically built to handle heavy loads, and this inherent robustness often means they are already well-suited to the weight of electric trucks like the Lightning. Unlike cars, trucks have historically been heavier, influencing tire design and load capacity ratings. Interestingly, the speed rating on some truck tires is lower, and this limitation, rather than motor power, can sometimes be a factor in 0-60 performance, as noted in some Rivian tests. Despite this, all-terrain (A/T) tires are available directly from manufacturers like Rivian and Ford, indicating their viability for EV trucks.
However, opting for A/T tires on your electric truck does bring certain trade-offs, particularly concerning noise and range. While anecdotal evidence suggests that noise levels do increase with A/T tires, it may not be a primary concern for drivers who prioritize off-road capability. Manufacturers might not heavily focus on noise reduction in A/T tires, as their intended use case often leans towards rugged terrain rather than quiet highway cruising. This is akin to prioritizing off-road performance over fuel efficiency in a traditional off-road vehicle.
The impact on range is another significant consideration. Switching to A/T tires can lead to a range reduction, generally estimated between 10-20%. Real-world tests, such as one performed by Town & Country on a lifted Lightning with A/T tires, showed a decrease from 2.4 miles per kWh to 2.0 miles per kWh. While some drivers might find this range reduction negligible, it’s a factor to consider, especially for those who rely on maximizing their EV truck’s range. You can often hear the difference in tire noise in videos documenting these types of modifications, further highlighting the acoustic trade-off.
Beyond the tires themselves, the availability of suitable wheels for A/T EV truck setups is another area that is still developing. Lightweight and aerodynamic wheel options specifically designed for A/T tires on electric trucks are not yet widely available outside of manufacturer-specific offerings. However, as the EV truck market expands and demand for versatile tire and wheel combinations grows, we can expect innovation in this area within the next five years.
In conclusion, choosing the best EV truck tires involves carefully weighing the benefits of A/T capability against potential impacts on range and noise. While A/T tires are readily available and can enhance the ruggedness of your electric truck, understanding their effect on efficiency and acoustics is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your driving needs and priorities.
