Europe’s first dedicated all-season electric vehicle (EV) tyre has arrived. The Vredestein Quatrac Pro EV is now available, and manufacturer Apollo Tyres says it features a “range of advanced design features and materials.” Developed specifically for year-round use by battery electric vehicles and hybrids, Apollo created the tyre to deliver greater driving range while providing superior levels of grip and traction in all conditions – including ice and snow.
In benchmarking against the existing range of Vredestein all-season tyres, Apollo Tyres’ computer simulations and real-world test programme confirmed the Quatrac Pro EV delivers superior levels of grip, facilitates increased driving range thanks to its lower rolling resistance and lighter construction, has a lower environmental impact, produces less noise, delivers a quieter and more comfortable ride, and reduces braking distances. Specifically, Apollo said that rolling resistance is “15 per cent lower than the brand’s best-performing equivalent non-EV tyre.” Cornering stability comes with a “six per cent improvement in handling” while braking in dry conditions is four per cent better. As an all-season tyre, Vredestein Quatrac Pro EV has the 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake) marking, which indicates its certification for use on ice and snow.
Range of 19 sizes in 2023
Vredestein Quatrac Pro EV is available through tyre retailers and distributors from December 2022, initially in a range of seven sizes for 18- and 19-inch wheel rims. An additional 12 sizes – including 17- and 20-inch options – will become available in 2023.
What’s more, the Quatrac Pro EV is purportedly the first all-season tyre ever produced with the ‘High Load’ (HL) mark – which means the tyre is able to carry ten per cent more weight than a reinforced ‘Extra Load’ (XL) tyre at the same pressure. The HL mark specifically applies to the 255/40 R20 variant, which Vredestein representatives say underlines the tyre’s suitability for large all-electric cars and SUVs.
