The United Arab Emirates is known for its extreme temperatures during the summer months. The combination of hot roads and UV exposure can affect the tyres of electric vehicles (EVs). Tyre performance directly impacts battery consumption, driving comfort, and safety.
EV tyres in UAE face increased risks of overheating and blowouts due to scorching heat. Therefore, UAE drivers must adopt specific strategies to extend their lifespan and maintain optimal performance. Let’s go through these tips and strategies without further ado.
Tips to Protect Your EV Tyres from UAE’s Heat
Choose the Right Set
Not all options can withstand high temperatures. You should opt for tyres specifically built for hot weather conditions. Summer or all-season ones with high heat resistance perform better in extreme climates. They are made with special rubber compounds that prevent them from softening under heat.
It reduces the risk of excessive wear and improves grip on hot roads. You should also considerlow-rolling-resistancee tyres in UAE as it will help improving battery efficiency.
Regular Pressure Checks
Air pressure plays a critical role in an EV’s efficiency and safety. In hot climates, air expands due to high temperatures. It can lead to overinflation or tyre bursts. On the other hand, underinflated ones increase rolling resistance, which results in higher energy consumption and premature wear.
Park in the Shade or Indoors
Leaving your EV exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods can significantly increase tyre temperatures. Therefore you should always park it in shaded areas or covered parking lots. It reduces the risk of heat build-up and prevents the rubber from drying out and cracking over time.
Avoid Aggressive Driving
Sudden braking and rapid acceleration generate excessive heat, which can cause tyres to wear out faster To protect them in hot climates, you should adopt a smooth driving approach. Try to avoid unnecessary harsh braking and acceleration. This reduces temperature spikes and extends their lifespan.
Drive at Optimal Speeds
High-speed driving on hot asphalt can cause tyres to overheat. It increases the risk of blowouts. Maintaining moderate speeds and avoiding excessive highway driving during peak afternoon hours can help prevent this issue. You can also use cruise control on long routes to maintain a steady pace and reduce stress on tyres.
Rotate Tyres Regularly
Periodic rotation is essential for even wear in hot regions like the UAE. Since EVs are typically heavier due to their battery packs, they exert more pressure on tyres. It can lead to uneven wear, especially when not rotated properly.
You should follow the recommended rotation schedule. This helps distribute wear evenly, ensuring your electric vehicle tyres last longer and provide consistent performance.
Monitor Tyre Tread Depth
Worn-out tyres with reduced tread depth lose their ability to grip hot roads effectively. If left unnoticed, it increases the risk of skidding and accidents. Therefore, you should regularly inspect tread depth using the penny test or a tread depth gauge.
The UAE’s extreme temperatures present significant challenges for EV tyres. However, you can keep them safe by following the aforementioned tips and strategies.