Tesla Model Y


Do electric vehicles need tires designed specifically for electric vehicles? Goodyear seems to think so. Noting that EVs need tires “designed with different priorities”, Goodyear has revealed its first North American-market replacement tire created with the unique requirements of EVs in mind.

The all-season tire, named the ElectricDrive GT, offers an asymmetric tread pattern, with a debut size of 255/45R19 104W XL. These specs match the tire size used by Tesla Model Y and Model 3 vehicles, as well as other EVs in market.

Goodyear ElectricDrive GT

Goodyear ElectricDrive GT

“EVs have different requirements for load, torque, noise, range, and rolling resistance compared to internal-combustion vehicles,” said David Reese, vice president of product development for Goodyear Americas. “For example, tire roar is more noticeable without an internal-combustion engine, and engineers have to account for the extra weight of a battery pack. Tires can also have a profound effect on range and efficiency, so EV-specific tires really are a necessity.”

Notably, the tire also benefits from Goodyear’s proprietary noise-reduction tech, as well as a “specialized tread compound” for maximum traction. This latest development puts Goodyear in line with other brands (like Michelin, Continental and Bridgestone) that currently offer EV replacement tires.

Back in 2015, Goodyear first teased the concept of a tire that “recovers energy from its flexing motion” which generated some notable buzz; however, Goodyear hasn’t provided any production details since then. The ElectricDrive GT is scheduled to launch in 2022.

Top Stories

Featured in this story

2021 Mustang Mach-E

Starting at $50,495

2021 Mustang Mach-E BUILD & PRICE

Distance Driven: 2,412 km

Times charged: 6

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse a arcu et tellus iaculis laoreet. Nam eu tortor vitae nunc tempus llamcorper ac vel ipsum. Nulla accumsan nunc sem.