Selling EV tires is a growing opportunity for tire dealers, but also one that comes with plenty of customer confusion. In this episode of Selling the Segment, we sit down with Nate Dodds, Product Manager for Performance Tires at General Tire, to talk through how dealers can confidently guide EV owners toward the right tire choice.
Why General Tire Doesn’t Require “EV-Specific” Tires
Dodds explains General Tire’s philosophy: EVs don’t require a separate, dedicated tire line. Instead, he says the company’s products are EV-ready. That means they meet the load index and speed rating requirements for electric vehicles across different segments. This is the case whether that’s a UHP all-season for performance-focused drivers or a touring tire for those prioritizing mileage.
Educating Customers on Tire Wear and Expectations
EVs are heavier than their ICE counterparts, often by 1,000–2,000 pounds due to battery weight. That extra load, combined with instant torque, leads to faster wear. Dodds shares ways dealers can set realistic expectations, qualify customers based on priorities, and recommend tires that align with those needs. For example, a Ford F-150 Lightning driver looking for longevity might be better served with a mileage-oriented highway terrain tire like the Grabber H/T.
Driving Habits and Maintenance Matter
From easing off the “go pedal” to avoiding aggressive braking, Dodds explains how small changes in driving habits can significantly extend tire life. He also covers key maintenance tips for EV tire owners, including proper inflation, regular rotations, and following OEM recommendations for tire setup.
As long as load index and speed rating match OEM specs, Dodds says tire dealers have the flexibility to meet a customer’s needs. Whether that means fitting winter tires in snowy climates or performance tires for spirited driving. Check out the video above for more tips on selling to customers driving electric vehicles.
