With rising electric vehicle sales, the automotive industry is witnessing a generational transformation. From vehicle manufacturers to their original equipment partnerships, everything has been impacted by these emerging technologies. The same is also true for the tyre industry, which links the powertrain and the driver, with the road.

At Apollo Tyres, we are re-evaluating the traditional tyre design philosophies to push the boundaries of innovation and come up with products that shape the future of the automobiles. This article aims to explore the changes that are coming to the wider tyre market within the next decade.
 

A Paradigm Shift in Tyre Design

Internal combustion engines (ICE) vehicles primarily rely on friction for braking and acceleration. In order to deliver that friction, the tyre designs of the past and current generation leaned towards maximizing the road grip. However, EVs have a very different power delivery mechanism than petrol and diesel cars. Where traditional cars have a power delivery that rises slowly as you shift through gears and accelerate, electric cars can offer instant torque and higher acceleration. Add to that the concept of regenerative braking and suddenly you need tyres with enhanced capabilities and characteristics beyond the traditional norms.
 

Tyre Characteristics of an EV

 The need for extended range is paramount for EVs. Optimizing tyre rolling resistance and maintaining consistent performance over time are essential for maximizing the driving range. EV tyres need some inherent properties that differ from traditional car and SUV tyres. Here’s an overview:

Grip and Handling

Electric cars are both heavy and fast. Which means every marginal increase in speed puts more pressure on the tyres and the suspension system. Tyres that are not optimized for handling such load at speed may simply buckle under the pressure and lead to performance loss or a mishap. This necessitates the adoption of advanced tread patterns and sturdier rubber compounds that offer better handling characteristics than their traditional counterparts.

Rolling Resistance

Low rolling resistance tyres in the past were often associated with reduced traction and braking performance. Because these tyres were primarily targeting fuel-efficiency instead of performance. However, now we are finding out that these tyres are perfectly suited for electric vehicles as they directly contribute to increased range and reduced energy consumption. Moreover, optimized rubber compounds with lower viscosities, and sophisticated construction materials have enabled us to offset some of the disadvantages of low rolling resistance tyres.

Regenerative Braking

EVs use regenerative braking, which is a mechanism that converts kinetic energy from braking into electrical energy that charges a vehicle's battery. However, this process works by creating reverse friction between the tyres and the surface, which requires tyres to efficiently dissipate heat generated during deceleration. We understand that the ability of the tyre to handle these heat fluxes is critical for longevity and safety.

Thermal Management

Due to the aforementioned speed and load factors governing electric cars, different driving conditions and usage patterns may generate varying thermal loads on the tyre. Therefore, EV tyres will require better thermal management features to ensure consistent performance over a wide range of temperatures and to minimize the risk of overheating or degradation.
 

Utilizing New Materials and Manufacturing Processes

Today, the transition to EVs isn't solely impacting tyre design for electric vehicles. The advancements in materials, manufacturing, and design principles are beginning to filter into the traditional ICE vehicle market. This cross-pollination of technologies is creating a more competitive and innovative environment for the entire tyre industry. Here are the four critical elements driving that process:

Rubber Compounds

At Apollo Tyres, we believe that the development of advanced rubber compounds that can resist heat and reduce rolling resistance to the maximum possible extent is a critical area of research. Therefore, we continue to invest in development and testing of new compounds with novel additives and polymers.

Tread Patterns

Similar to the compound, the tread also plays a critical role in optimizing the contact patch for even load distribution, dissipating surface heat, and reducing rolling resistance. The Apollo Alnac 4G remains a prime example of our innovative tread technology serving the current generation of cars, and we are continuously testing more intricate and optimized patterns, employing modern 3D printing technologies.

Construction Materials

Apart from the rubber compound, there are several components used in the construction of tyres, as you must be well aware of the differences between radial and bias-ply tyres. We recognise that advanced construction materials with improved stiffness and flexibility will enhance overall performance and durability of EV tyres.

Sustainable Practices

Lastly, we have to consider the sustainability factor when developing these tyre technologies. After all that’s the whole point of moving to an electric future. Thus, at Apollo, we are constantly exploring ways to reduce the environmental footprint by employing recycled materials and implementing more sustainable manufacturing processes.

The demand for enhanced performance characteristics in EV tyres means we have to push the boundaries of known technologies soon.
 

Apollo Tyres for Electric Cars and Two-Wheelers

The future is clearly paved with evolving tyre technologies, ready to accompany the next generation of electric vehicles on the road ahead and we are ready to go the distance with our newest EV tyre offerings for electric cars and two-wheelers.

Apollo Amperion Tyres for Electric Cars

The Amperion electric vehicle tyre delivers a noticeable boost to your range, up to 5%, thanks to its industry-leading rolling resistance. This superior performance is achieved through a low hysteresis tread compound and optimized tyre cavity design.

Engineered for a quiet ride, the Amperion features a multi-pitch tread pattern and optimized sipe orientation. Its unique tread design, combined with an aerodynamic sidewall, includes a solid, stiff center rib and intermediate ribs for enhanced stability and performance.

Apollo Wav Tyres for Electric Scooters

The Apollo WAV electric scooter tyre is a revolutionary design inspired by electric circuits, symbolizing energy and power. Built for superior performance and a transformative riding experience, the WAV is poised to redefine the future of electric mobility. Its unique design features a continuous center tread for maximized stiffness, contact patch, and extended mileage.

Equally spaced zig-zag grooves at the center provide enhanced force distribution, stability, and exceptional wet traction. A scientifically formulated compound delivers super-low rolling resistance without compromising mileage or grip, making it a true game-changer for electric scooter riders.