How Tyres Can Save You Money: The Secret of Low Rolling Resistance for ICE and EV Vehicles
When it comes to saving money on the road, most drivers focus on fuel prices, engine efficiency, or switching to an electric vehicle (EV). But one of the most overlooked contributors to fuel economy is something every vehicle already has—tyres.
Whether you drive a petrol-powered internal combustion engine (ICE) car or a fully electric vehicle, choosing the right tyres can significantly reduce your running costs. The key? Low rolling resistance.
What is Rolling Resistance?
Rolling resistance is the force that opposes the motion of a tyre rolling on a surface. In simple terms, it’s the energy your car must expend to keep the tyres moving forward. High rolling resistance means your engine or electric motor has to work harder, burning more fuel or electricity. Lower rolling resistance, on the other hand, allows the vehicle to move more freely—translating into better efficiency and lower costs.
How Do Tyres Affect Fuel Efficiency?
Tyres typically account for up to 20% of fuel consumption in conventional ICE vehicles and up to 30% of energy use in EVs. This is due to the additional drag created as tyres flex and deform during motion. Tyres designed with low rolling resistance use advanced rubber compounds, optimized tread patterns, and stiffer sidewalls to reduce that flex and energy loss.
By switching to low rolling resistance tyres, drivers can expect fuel savings of 3–6% on average. That might sound small, but it adds up quickly:
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For ICE vehicles driving 15,000 km/year at 8L/100km, a 5% improvement saves 60 litres of fuel annually—around $120 depending on fuel prices.
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For EV drivers, lower rolling resistance extends driving range. That means fewer charging stops and more efficient use of your battery.
EVs Benefit Even More
Electric vehicles are especially sensitive to rolling resistance. Since EVs don’t benefit from regenerative braking at high speeds and need to preserve battery range, the tyre’s efficiency becomes critical. Many EV-specific tyres are designed with even lower rolling resistance than standard low-resistance tyres and are tailored to the weight and torque characteristics of EVs.
Longer range = fewer charges = lower electricity bills. It’s that simple.
Bonus: Less Wear and Tear
Low rolling resistance tyres also tend to produce less heat, which can reduce wear and prolong tyre life when properly maintained. That means fewer replacements, less waste, and more money saved over the tyre’s lifespan.
Final Thoughts
Switching to low rolling resistance tyres is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to improve fuel economy in both ICE and EV vehicles. While they may come at a slightly higher upfront cost, the long-term savings in fuel or electricity—and even tyre replacement—make them a smart investment.
When shopping for new tyres, look for models labelled as “fuel-efficient” or “low rolling resistance.” Your wallet—and the planet—will thank you.
