Goodyear Tyre’s Contribution to EV Performance and Range Optimisation

With the world shifting to electric vehicles, there is an effort across all aspects of automotive engineering, and this continues to also impact the development of tyres. The primary way that EVs are different from conventional vehicles powered by internal combustion is that EVs require a different type of tyre to support their large battery packs, the ability to deliver torque immediately, and place an emphasis on energy efficiency. 

As one of the largest tyre makers in the world, Goodyear has taken the lead in developing technologies to address the many challenges that EVs present. The company has used cutting-edge materials and technology combined with a new design methodology and a data-driven engineering approach to significantly improve not only the overall performance and driving experience of EVs, but also to reduce the amount of energy that they use while operating.

Before delving into specific technologies, however, it will be beneficial to first understand how EVs require a fundamentally different approach to tyre development than do conventional vehicles.

Identifying the Specific Tyre Needs of Electric Vehicles

Unlike other vehicles, Electric Vehicles use different types of power generation and consumption methods than Internal Combustion Engines. This is due to the lack of an engine, large battery systems and emphasis on regenerative braking. These three factors impact how electric vehicle tyres perform on the road. In addition, because EVs are usually much heavier than comparable traditional vehicles due to their battery weight, they create more load stress on Tyres in Southampton than ICE vehicles. Instant torque from an EV causes extra stress to be placed on the tread compounds, and as EVs are generally quieter than ICE vehicles, travellers hear more road noise from their EV compared to an ICE vehicle.

As a result, Goodyear recognises these early EV tyre performance characteristics when developing new tyre designs that meet both the EV performance and safety requirements.

Maximising EV Range via Low Rolling Resistance

The single most significant contributor to how far an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge is rolling resistance. In order to create tyres with reduced rolling resistance, Goodyear has invested heavily in advanced tread compounds and innovative tread patterns to achieve maximum energy efficiency. In order to achieve maximum energy efficiency, Goodyear has used the latest technology in silica-based tread compounds and optimised tread patterns to reduce friction without sacrificing grip.

Lightweight Tyre Construction With Advanced Materials

In terms of efficiency, tyre weight is critical for EVs after rolling resistance; the heavier the tyre, the more energy it will take to start moving/stop moving - this directly affects the EV range and performance based upon acceleration and deceleration.

Goodyear focuses on lightweight materials and techniques for its tyre products, so it can use high-strength and low-weight materials that provide maximum protection/utility for the consumer and a meaningful reduction in the total weight of the EV. By using advanced polymers in the construction of the tyre structure, Goodyear is able to create a much lighter-weight tyre while maintaining the tyre's durability and load-bearing ability.

Noise Reduction for a More Comfortable EV Driving Experience

As the EV does not have an engine, the next most audible sound for the driver and passengers in the vehicle is the sound of the tyre(s) on the road; therefore, it is extremely important to develop a tyre that can help dramatically reduce tyre noise.

Goodyear has implemented several noise-reduction technologies within its tyre products, including unique tread block designs, as well as a specialised foam insert placed within the inside cavity of the tyre that dampens much of the road noise and increases the comfort of the ride; thereby, it helps to create an environment that matches the quiet characteristics of electric vehicles.

Managing Durability and Torque for Electric Powertrains

Instant torque represents one of the most pronounced benefits of electric vehicles by providing for quick acceleration as well as seamless delivery of power; however, when not managed properly, this torque can lead to increased tyre wear.

To mitigate this effect, Goodyear has developed tyres that are specifically designed for electric vehicles. The compound used in the tread and the design of the contact with the road surface serve to provide greater distribution of the torque throughout the tyre surface, as well as to provide a longer life for electric vehicle tyre owners through savings associated with lower long-term maintenance costs.

Smart Tyre Technology and Data-Driven Optimisation

With the advent of the interconnected vehicle space, tyres are shifting from traditional passive products developed and manufactured by tyre manufacturers to becoming an intelligent product that will serve the end user as an integrated part of the overall vehicle. Goodyear Tyres in Southampton is currently conducting research on how to develop smart tyre technology. Goodyear’s smart tyre solutions utilise various sensing technologies to collect and transmit data related to tyre pressure, temperature, and road conditions in real-time. The information gathered regarding an electric vehicle can be used to:

• Optimise the utilisation of the energy consumed by the vehicle.

• Provide the driver with alerts of potential issues that could lead to reduced efficiency.

• Work together with other vehicle systems to provide predictive maintenance.

Conclusion 

Goodyear's contributions to enhancing EV range & performance go way beyond typical tyre manufacturing practices. They have addressed all of the unique challenges of electric vehicles by developing low rolling resistance technology, lightweight materials, noise reduction innovations, robust design with resistance to torque-related failure and by creating intelligent tyre products. As the demand for electric vehicles increases, tyres will play an increasingly important role in providing EV's with greater range, comfort, and better performance through innovation provided by Goodyear tyre products.