When roadside assistance is needed, it is almost every third case due to a flat tire. Now figures from Norway show that electric car tires are the worst.
A new Norwegian study conducted by NAF (Norwegian Automobile Association) reveals a surprising difference between electric cars and gasoline cars: Electric cars have a significantly higher risk of flat tires.
Almost 30 percent of all roadside assistance calls for electric cars are due to flat tires, compared to just 11 percent for gasoline and diesel cars.
"There are several reasons why electric drivers experience flat tires more often than other drivers," says Nils Sodal, senior communications advisor at NAF in a press release .
The study points to three main reasons for the increased risk of punctures for electric cars:
1. Weight: Electric cars are generally heavier than gasoline cars due to their large batteries. The extra weight puts more strain on the tires and increases the risk of a flat tire.
2. Tire type: Many electric cars are equipped with low-profile tires with larger rims and less rubber height. This gives a modern look, but also makes the tires more vulnerable to sharp objects on the road.
3. Traffic patterns: Electric cars are often used in urban areas, where the risk of running over broken glass, pieces of metal and other sharp objects is greater.
An additional factor contributing to the problem is that many electric cars are not equipped with a spare tire.
Instead, owners are often left with nothing but repair foam, which many drivers are unsure of how to use.
– There has been a trend over time that more people are calling for help with a flat tire. People are not as self-reliant as before, says Nils Sodal.
Ståle Frydenlund, senior advisor and test manager at the Danish Electric Vehicle Association, points out, however, that driving style and tire choice also play a role.
"Ultimately, tire wear is mostly determined by the driver. If you drive carefully, your tires will last longer," he says.
Frydenlund recommends that electric drivers who want to minimize the risk of flat tires consider switching from low-profile tires and ensure they have the correct tire pressure and wheel alignment. He also emphasizes the importance of choosing high-quality tires.
Although flat tires are a common problem for electric vehicles, they are not the most common reason for roadside assistance. According to NAF, the primary cause is discharged batteries.
– Even electric cars have a small 12-volt battery that starts the car. This battery can cause problems for any driver, especially in cold weather. This can be avoided by maintaining the starter battery regularly during the winter, says Nils Sodal.
