There’s a common assumption that EVs come fitted with run-flat tyres because they don’t have a spare wheel. But as we covered in our blog on why your EV doesn’t come with run-flat tyres, manufacturers have moved away from run-flats for good reason. They’re heavier, noisier, and reduce range, which is the opposite of what an EV is designed for.
So what happens when you actually get a flat? Here’s what you need to know, and what to do.
Why you shouldn’t keep driving on a flat EV tyre
This is the most important thing to understand. EVs are significantly heavier than equivalent petrol vehicles because of the battery pack. A conventional EV tyre isn’t designed to support that weight once it’s lost air pressure, not the way a run-flat tyre. Driving on a deflated tyre can damage the tyre and potentially the wheel much faster than you might expect.
On New Zealand roads, where gravel shoulders and uneven rural stretches are common, a bad situation gets worse quickly. If you notice a flat tyre, pull over as soon as it’s safe and assess from there.
Use the tyre repair kit in your boot
Most EVs come with a tyre repair kit instead of a spare wheel. This typically includes a bottle of sealant and a small compressor. For a small puncture in the tread, the sealant temporarily plugs the hole and the compressor reinflates the tyre enough to get you to a tyre shop.
The sealant is a temporary fix, not a permanent one. The sticky fluid coats the inside of the tyre, which can make a proper repair harder down the line. In some cases, it means the tyre needs replacing rather than patching. It’s best saved for when you genuinely need it to get moving again.
When to call roadside assistance
If the puncture is too large for the repair kit, the tyre is badly deflated, or there’s damage to the sidewall, roadside assistance is the safest option. For example, AA Roadservice is available 24/7 and can arrange for your vehicle to be transported to a tyre shop. Many EV manufacturers include roadside assistance coverage with the vehicle, so it’s worth checking what’s included with yours before you need it.
Repair vs. replace: what to expect
Not every puncture means you need a new tyre. A small puncture in the tread area can often be professionally repaired, and you’ll be back on the road without replacing the whole thing.
One thing worth knowing is that many EV tyres have a foam layer bonded to the inside to reduce road noise. That means a professional repair isn’t as straightforward as it would be on a standard tyre. The technician needs to carefully cut away a section of the foam, inspect and patch the puncture from the inside, then clean and re-adhere the area. It’s still very doable, but it’s something to factor in when choosing where to take your vehicle. A shop with EV tyre experience will handle it without issue.
Sidewall punctures, significant cuts, or damage caused by driving on a flat generally mean the tyre needs replacing. A tyre professional will be able to tell you which option applies. A professional puncture repair typically costs NZD $45–$120, while replacing an EV tyre can run $300–$700+ depending on the model and brand.
How to reduce the risk of a puncture in the first place
Check your tyre pressures regularly. Because EVs are heavier, underinflation puts more stress on the tyre and makes it more vulnerable to damage. Most modern EVs have a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that alerts you when pressure drops, so don’t ignore those dashboard warnings. A quick visual check before you drive can also help you spot something lodged in the tread before it becomes a problem.
When it’s time to replace your tyres, choosing ones with the right load rating for your EV makes a real difference. Tyres designed for electric vehicles are built to handle the extra weight and the demands of electric torque, which helps them last longer and perform better overall.
Looking for new EV tyres? Browse our wide range of tyres to find the right fit for your vehicle, your driving style and your budget.
