Hybrid Vs. Conventional Tires: What’s The Difference?

While driving down the highway, you see a car with giant tires. You pull up alongside to look closer and realize they’re not just big; they’re also different from your conventional tires. They’re hybrid tires.

So, what’s the difference between hybrid and conventional tires? Do you need special equipment to drive on them? Are they more expensive? Let’s find out. Eastern Shore Hyundai, serving Bay Minette, AL, will brief you on conventional and hybrid tires in this blog post.

Operational Differences between Conventional and Hybrid Tires:

The basic difference between hybrid cars and regular vehicles is their operation. A hybrid vehicle adds an electric motor to the internal combustion engine rather than relying on it.

The electric & hybrid drives, the powertrain is managed two ways:

• In parallel hybrids, the motor is only activated by a battery in series and closes at a specific speed, with the use of a computerized controller.
• On the other hand, with a series hybrid, the motor controls the vehicle at all times, with power being supplied either by the battery or a power generator that is run by the engine.

Functional Differences between Conventional and Hybrid Tires:

One of the main functional differences between conventional and hybrid tires is their contact patch. The contact patch is the tire area that comes into contact with the ground when you’re driving.

Because hybrids are heavier than regular cars, their contact patches are also larger. It means that they have more grip on the road, which can be useful in slippery or wet conditions. They also tend to wear down more slowly than regular tires.

Economic Differences between Conventional and Hybrid Tires:

Another difference between these two types of tires is their rolling resistance. Rolling resistance measures how much energy is needed to keep the tire moving forward. Hybrid tires have less rolling resistance than conventional tires, requiring less energy to keep them moving. It can lead to improved fuel economy.

Material Differences between Conventional and Hybrid Tires:

Hybrid tires are also made of different materials than regular tires. The tread on hybrid tires is often made of a harder rubber compound, which helps to improve their durability. The sidewalls of hybrid tires are also usually stiffer than regular tires. It helps to improve the handling and stability of the vehicle.

Environmental Differences between Conventional and Hybrid Tires:

Another difference between hybrid and regular tires is their environmental impact. Hybrid tires are made of materials designed to be more environmentally friendly than those used in conventional tires. For example, the tread on hybrid tires is often made of a recycled rubber compound. The sidewalls of hybrid tires are also usually made of a material designed to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted during the manufacturing process.

Final Verdict:

So, what’s the verdict? Are hybrids better for the environment? The answer is a resounding yes! Hybrids have lower emissions than conventional cars. They also require less maintenance. Plus, you can save money on gas.

Conventional tires have been around for many years and are generally less expensive than hybrids. However, they also wear down more quickly. Hybrid tires offer several benefits over conventional tires- including longer tread life, better fuel economy, and enhanced performance in wet weather conditions.

Eastern Shore Hyundai has a wide selection of hybrids in stock, and we’re always delighted to help our customers discover the ideal vehicle for their needs.

Contact us today to learn more about our hybrid vehicles or search our inventory. Thanks for reading!