Vi Bilagare: Summer EV Tire Test R19 2025

As electric SUVs grow heavier and more powerful, their tires face unprecedented demands: balancing energy efficiency for range with safety in unpredictable weather. Vi Bilagare’s 2025 test tackled this challenge by evaluating seven summer tires—including two manufacturer-specific OE tires (for Volkswagen and Volvo) and five aftermarket models—on a 2,031 kg Kia EV6 and Tesla Model Y. Conducted in chilly, 10°C conditions near Madrid (mimicking Scandinavian spring/autumn), the trial exposed critical trade-offs between efficiency and safety.

The test’s most striking revelation? OE tires, engineered for low rolling resistance to maximize EV range, sacrificed wet grip, braking stability, and aquaplaning resistance. Despite their “AA” EU labels and carmaker endorsements, these tires faltered in safety-critical scenarios, performing closer to budget options than premium rivals. For instance, they lost traction in standing water 10–12 km/h sooner than top aftermarket models, raising concerns about their suitability for heavier EVs in emergencies.

Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV - Winner Recommended

88 44

· Summer · 2019 · Light Truck / SUV - Street/Sport Truck Summer

Verdict:
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV claims 1st place, dominating wet handling (71.4s, 1st) and straight aquaplaning (91.7 km/h, 1st) with precise steering and exceptional emergency control. While its dry braking (43.9m, 5th) and rolling resistance (396km, 4th) lag slightly, its safety-focused performance justifies its premium price. Comfort and noise levels, however, trail rivals, reflecting its sport-oriented design.
Steering Response Wet Handling Straight Aquaplaning Driving Safety Noise Rolling Resistance Price Subj. Comfort

North America · Central & South America · Europe · Russia+ · East Asia · Southeast Asia · Middle East · Africa · Oceania

Test Score:

86
Nokian Hakka Black 3 Recommended

N/A 26

· Summer · 2023 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Nokian Hakka Black 3 SilentDrive secures 2nd place, boasting best-in-class wet braking (41.6m, 1st) and dry braking (42m, 1st), paired with exceptional noise reduction (5/10, 1st) via its noise-dampening felt. While its wet handling (71.9s, 2nd) and predictable rear-grip loss inspire confidence, weaker aquaplaning resistance (84.9 km/h, 4th) and comfort compromises (3/10, 4th) relegate it behind the Michelin. Its premium price reflects SUV/EV-focused durability and safety, but testers prioritized outright safety over refinement.
Driving Safety Subj. Noise Wet Braking Dry Braking Rolling Resistance Price Straight Aquaplaning Subj. Comfort

Europe

Test Score:

86
Pirelli Scorpion

82 39

· Summer · 2022 · Light Truck / SUV - Highway Rib Summer

Verdict:
The Pirelli Scorpion earns 3rd place, balancing comfort (5/10, 1st) and durability with predictable wet/dry performance. While delivering strong dry braking (42m, 1st) and low noise (4/10, 2nd), its relaxed steering and reduced grip levels in wet handling (72.9s, 5th) place it a tier below sportier rivals. Ideal for drivers prioritizing refinement and tread longevity over outright agility.
Noise Treadwear Price Subj. Comfort Dry Braking Rolling Resistance Straight Aquaplaning Wet Handling Steering Response Wet Braking

Central & South America · Europe · Russia+ · Japan

Test Score:

84
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6

93 60

· Summer · 2022 · Passenger - Max Performance Summer

Verdict:
The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 ranks 4th, excelling in wet circle grip (11.3s, 1st) and delivering competitive dry braking (42.9m, 3rd) with balanced rolling resistance (398km, 3rd). However, its weak aquaplaning resistance (82.9 km/h, 5th) and mediocre wet braking (44m, 5th) limit its safety edge. Subpar comfort (2/10, 5th) and noise levels (3/10, 4th) further detract from its appeal, despite its mid-range price.
Rolling Resistance Wet Circle Dry Braking Noise Straight Aquaplaning Wet Braking Subj. Comfort

USA+ · Canada · Europe · Russia+ · Middle East · South Africa

Test Score:

78
Continental PremiumContact 7

95 53

· Summer · 2022 · Passenger - Premuim Touring Summer

Verdict:
The Continental PremiumContact 7 ranks 5th, combining precise steering, strong dry handling (5/10, 1st), and class-leading rolling resistance (417km, 2nd) for efficient performance. However, its weak aquaplaning resistance (81.6 km/h, 6th) and subpar comfort/noise scores (2/10 each) offset its strengths. While ideal for drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency and dry agility, it falls short in wet safety and refinement.
Rolling Resistance Subj. Dry Handling Dry Braking Noise Straight Aquaplaning Wet Braking Subj. Comfort

Europe · Russia+

Test Score:

72
Hifly Vigorous HP801

N/A 22

· All Season · 2014 · Light Truck / SUV - Street/Sport Truck All-Season

Verdict:
The Hifly HP801 ranks 7th, offering low cost and decent aquaplaning resistance (88.5 km/h, 2nd) with good comfort (5/10, 1st). However, critical safety flaws—poor lateral stability, severe fishtailing, and weak dry/wet braking (46.6m dry, 47.8m wet)—make it unsuitable for heavy EVs despite its weight rating. Testers strongly caution against its use due to compromised control and safety risks.
Straight Aquaplaning Price Subj. Comfort Rolling Resistance Wet Handling Subj. Dry Handling Wet Braking Dry Braking

USA+ · Canada · Europe · Russia+ · East Asia

Test Score:

54