Electric Vehicles Exacerbate Tire Pollution

Tesla’s Model Y generates 26 percent more tire pollution than a similar Kia hybrid, with the same distance traveled. 

Electric Vehicles tend to be significantly heavier than gas-powered or hybrid cars due to their larger, heftier batteries. A Tesla Model S Long Range weighs 2,068 kg- 12.6% more than a BMW 540i XDrive; a Chevy Bolt weighs 1,615 kg- 30.3% more than a Nissan Kicks. With the heavier weight of EVs and their more aggressive torque, the tire wear of EVs is estimated to be 20% faster. 

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Tire wear leaves rubber, metal, and some other compounds to roads, while the bigger parts travel to waterways and the smaller parts remain in the air, which is also known as PM2.5. One of many tire additive compounds- 1,3-Diphenylguanidine (DPG) was found present in the Don River (Toronto,) which is toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. Another compound- 6PPD-quinone, used to prevent tires from breaking down, was also found present in urban creeks. The compound was found to cause coho salmon's acute mortality, which is indigenous to the coastal waters of British Columbia. 

In terms of tire pollution in the air, 3%- 7% of PM2.5 is estimated to consist of tire wear and tear. Exposure to high levels of PM2.5 can affect children’s lung growth, and even premature death. The particles also impact the environment by acidifying lakes and streams. 

Annually, an estimated 6 million tonnes of tire wear particles are released into the environment. To prevent and reduce pollution, in April 2023, the government of Canada awarded around 150,000 each to Applied Quantum Materials Inc., Nova Graphene Canada Inc., and Stema Punch and Die Inc. through Canadian Plastics Innovation Challenges to develop new tire material compositions. 

This story was first covered by Jim Robbins.