News
Partnership announcement
Tyre Review and 4WD trip partnership announcement. From tyre reviews to 4WD trips, we've got you covered.Read the full article >
BYD Shark: How Tyre Choice Impacts Power Consumption (and Why It Matters)
The arrival of the BYD Shark marks a significant moment for electrified utes. Combining EV torque with genuine dual-cab practicality, the Shark is designed to appeal to both lifestyle and work users. But as with any electric vehicle—especially one with off-road intent—tyre choice plays a disproportionately large role in power consumption, efficiency, and real-world range.
Below, we break down why tyres matter so much on an EV like the BYD Shark, and what happens when you change them.
Why Tyres Have a Bigger Impact on EVs
Unlike internal combustion vehicles, EVs deliver instant torque and operate with much higher drivetrain efficiency. That means:
- Any additional resistance is felt immediately
- Losses from tyres are not “hidden” by engine inefficiency
- Changes in rolling resistance show up clearly in energy consumption (Wh/km)
In short: tyres are one of the biggest mechanical variables affecting EV range.
Rolling Resistance: The Silent Range Killer
Rolling resistance is the energy required to keep a tyre moving at a constant speed. It’s influenced by:
- Tread pattern
- Rubber compound
- Sidewall stiffness
- Tyre weight and construction
What happens when rolling resistance increases?
- The electric motor must draw more power to maintain speed
- Energy consumption (Wh/100km) rises
- Usable driving range drops
On a vehicle like the BYD Shark—already heavier due to batteries—tyres compound this effect.
Tyre Type vs Power Consumption
1. Highway / OE-Style Tyres
Typically supplied from factory to maximise efficiency.
Characteristics
- Shallow tread blocks
- Low rolling resistance compounds
- Lighter construction
Impact
- Best range and lowest power consumption
- Quiet and stable on-road
- Limited off-road grip
This is where the BYD Shark achieves its official efficiency figures.
2. All-Terrain (AT) Tyres
A common upgrade for ute buyers.
Characteristics
- Larger tread blocks
- Stronger sidewalls
- Increased rotating mass
Impact
- 5–10% increase in energy consumption (typical)
- Reduced highway range
- Improved durability and off-road traction
For Shark owners who tour or tow, this is often the best compromise, but range loss is unavoidable.
Designed for extreme off-road use.
Characteristics
- Aggressive tread voids
- Very high rolling resistance
- Heavy carcass
Impact
- 10–20% (or more) increase in power consumption
- Noticeable drop in range, especially at highway speeds
- Increased noise and vibration
On an EV ute like the BYD Shark, MT tyres can dramatically undermine efficiency, making them a poor match unless off-road use is frequent and intentional.
Tyre Size, Weight & Rotational Mass
Changing tyres isn’t just about tread pattern.
Larger Diameter Tyres
- Alter effective gearing
- Increase torque demand
- Can reduce acceleration efficiency
Heavier Tyres
- Increase rotational inertia
- Require more energy every time the vehicle accelerates
- Reduce effectiveness of regenerative braking
On an EV, weight added at the wheel is far more costly than weight added to the body.
Tyre Pressure: The Overlooked Variable
Lower pressures:
- Increase tyre deformation
- Increase rolling resistance
- Raise energy consumption
While airing down is essential off-road, running reduced pressures on-road in the BYD Shark will:
- Reduce range
- Increase heat and wear
- Negatively affect efficiency metrics
Maintaining correct pressures is one of the simplest ways to protect EV range.
Regenerative Braking & Tyre Choice
Aggressive or heavy tyres reduce the effectiveness of regenerative braking by:
- Increasing inertia
- Reducing how smoothly energy can be recovered
This means:
- More reliance on friction brakes
- Less energy returned to the battery
- Further efficiency loss in stop-start driving
Choosing the Right Tyre for the BYD Shark
Ask yourself:
- Is range or off-road capability the priority?
- How often is the vehicle used on-road vs off-road?
- Is towing part of regular use?
Best Practice Recommendation
For most BYD Shark owners:
- Stick close to OEM size
- Choose a lightweight all-terrain with EV-friendly compounds
- Avoid unnecessary upsizing
This preserves:
- Range
- Power efficiency
- Ride quality
- Battery longevity
Final Thoughts
The BYD Shark brings EV technology into a segment where tyre choice has always mattered—but now it matters more than ever. Tyres directly influence power consumption, range, braking recovery, and overall driving efficiency.
In an electric ute, tyres aren’t just a consumable item—they’re a critical energy management component.
Choosing wisely can mean the difference between enjoying the Shark’s full potential or quietly giving range away every kilometre you drive.