Tyre particulate pollution, also known as tire wear particles or tire dust, is created when the friction between a tire and the road surface generates tiny particles that are released into the air. These particles can contain a variety of harmful substances, including heavy metals and carcinogenic compounds, and can remain in the environment for long periods of time.
While tire particulate pollution is generated by all types of vehicles, studies have found that EVs may actually produce more tire wear particles than gasoline-powered vehicles. This is because EVs tend to be heavier due to the weight of their batteries, which puts more pressure on the tires and increases the rate of wear.
So, what are the effects of tire particulate pollution from EVs? One major concern is the impact on air quality. The particles released by tires can contribute to the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which has been linked to a range of health issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular problems. This can be particularly concerning in urban areas where air pollution is already a major issue.
In addition to the health impacts, tire particulate pollution can also have ecological effects. The particles can accumulate in soil and waterways, potentially harming plants and aquatic life. They can also contribute to the degradation of infrastructure, such as roads and buildings, by causing corrosion.
So, what can be done to mitigate the impacts of tire particulate pollution from EVs? One solution is to develop new tire technologies that produce fewer wear particles. There are already some promising developments in this area, such as the use of more durable materials and improved tread patterns. Although the more obvious answer is reducing vehicle weight! On average EVs are heavier than their ICE counterparts due to their large battery packs and multiple motors. A focus on lightweighting is needed to reduce these particulates polluting cities and towns, something many OEMs simply aren’t geared towards, or just can’t make a viable business model out of due to legacy systems and manufacturing processes.
While EVs are a promising alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles, they are not without their environmental impacts. Tire particulate pollution is just one of the many factors that need to be considered as we work towards a more sustainable future. By continuing to develop and implement new technologies and strategies, we can help minimise these impacts and create a cleaner and healthier environment for all.
