Tyre maintenance is one of the most overlooked but impactful aspects of EV ownership in India. EV tyres tend to wear slightly faster than on equivalent petrol vehicles for two reasons: the instant torque delivery causes more tyre stress during acceleration, and the battery weight increases the overall vehicle weight, adding to rolling wear.
Checking tyre pressure weekly is the single most effective maintenance habit – under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, reduce range by 3–7%, and wear unevenly. Most EV scooters run 35–40 PSI; cars vary by model (check the door placard or owner’s manual). Rotating tyres every 5,000–7,000 km for scooters and 8,000–10,000 km for cars ensures even wear across all wheels.
Most modern EV two-wheelers use tubeless tyres, which are more practical – a slow puncture can be temporarily sealed with tubeless repair kits without full removal. Budget for tyre replacement every 15,000–20,000 km for scooters and 30,000–40,000 km for cars, depending on riding style and road conditions.
