Start Rescue in England Shares Initial Experiences with Electric Vehicles: Tire Issues Predominate

In England, road assistance provider Start Rescue has recently compiled their initial experiences with electric vehicles (EVs). According to their data, the most common reason for calling roadside assistance for EVs has been tire punctures. “Our data shows that 29% of the callouts for electric vehicles are due to a flat tire,” says Lee Puffett, a senior employee at Start Rescue. This trend mirrors that of petrol and diesel vehicles, largely because many new cars are not equipped with a spare tire as a measure to reduce weight and emissions. Additionally, major tire punctures cannot always be remedied with a sealant.

An interesting aspect noted by Start Rescue is the noticeably heavier weight of electric vehicles, exacerbating the tire issue. Despite the growing popularity and distinct features of EVs, their heavier weight poses a challenge, especially in the context of tire durability.

However, the company’s data reveals that the range of electric vehicle batteries does not pose a significant problem for drivers. Yet, there is a need for attention to the 12-volt battery, which powers functions similar to those in petrol and diesel cars, such as the dashboard and enabling the car to start, as well as operating lights and windscreen wipers.

On a positive note, Start Rescue’s statistics indicate that electric vehicles are less prone to callouts due to a depleted battery compared to their petrol and diesel counterparts. For electric vehicles, these instances account for 23.7% of callouts, as opposed to 29.7% for petrol and diesel vehicles. Regular use of the vehicle helps keep the 12-volt battery in good condition and reduces the likelihood of needing roadside assistance, though EVs still require this system for unlocking doors and starting the vehicle.

Lee Puffett emphasizes the importance of regular usage for electric vehicles to prevent the draining of the 12-volt battery over time. However, maintaining an electric vehicle in working condition is crucial, as repairs on the road can be more complex. “Our data shows that it’s twice as likely to fix a petrol or diesel car on the road compared to an electric vehicle,” he adds. This insight highlights the necessity for EV owners to maintain their vehicles diligently to avoid complicated roadside repairs.