End of the Spare Tire? Electric Vehicles Abandon Spare Tires and Raise Concerns (Freepik – standret)
Spare tires, also known as “spares,” are disappearing, not only in electric vehicles (EVs), but also in many modern cars.
The reason for this is mainly the pursuit of weight reduction and space optimization, which improves fuel efficiency and increases the range of EVs.
In the case of models like the Blazer EV and the Hyundai Ioniq 5, instead of a spare tire, manufacturers offer a tire sealant kit and a portable compressor, leaving the responsibility for solving problems to roadside assistance.
While the tire sealant kit is convenient, it is not a permanent solution and can cause permanent damage to the tire. This is particularly problematic for those who engage in off-road activities, as the risk of tire damage is high on uneven terrain. Most manufacturers of trucks and more rugged SUVs still include spare tires, but EVs, which need to save weight and space for batteries and motors, are increasingly opting not to offer this option.
Although the trend of not including spare tires reflects the search for efficiency and savings, for many drivers, especially those who use their vehicles for off-road adventures, the lack of a spare tire can become a significant issue.
However, manufacturers are starting to recognize the need for more robust solutions, with companies like Rivian offering spare tires on their larger models.
Source: InsideEVs | Photo: Freepik – standret | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
