As National Road Trip Day approaches on May 22 and the America 250 summer travel season kicks into high gear, Americans are preparing to hit the road in record numbers despite rising fuel prices. AAA forecasts that more than 39 million Americans will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend alone, representing nearly 87% of all holiday travelers and setting the tone for another road trip-heavy summer. At the same time, oil and gas prices are continuing to spike, pushing more drivers to consider hybrids and electric vehicles to offset fuel costs.

For tire manufacturers and dealers, this summer travel season also highlights a broader shift in replacement tire demand, accelerating interest in EV-compatible replacement tires that can support a wider range of vehicle types and demands. 

Industry analysts note that consumers are paying closer attention to vehicle efficiency amid high fuel prices, placing renewed focus on technologies that can help improve fuel economy and extend EV range. However, these consumers remain unaware of the impact tire selection can have on EV range, tread wear, and overall trip performance. 

“Consumers are moving between gas-powered vehicles, hybrids, and EVs more fluidly and the higher gas prices are only accelerating their influence in car selection long-term,” said John Hagan, Executive Vice President of Sales. “We want to make sure we can prepare current and future customers for that car change when the time comes by engineering EV-compatible technology across most of our core lineup so retailers can simplify inventory while still meeting consumer expectations. A well-engineered tire means more miles for all travel including the summer adventures ahead.”

The expansion to support EV vehicle applications reflects what the company sees as a long-term shift in replacement tire demand. Rather than separating EV products into standalone categories, Nexen has integrated EV-compatible technologies such as enhanced load durability, low rolling resistance, and noise reduction features across much of its mainstream portfolio. This helps improve efficiency while maintaining confident handling and ride comfort during long-distance summer travel.

Among the company’s products supporting that strategy is the award-winning N’FERA Sport, part of Nexen Tire’s growing lineup of EV-compatible tires engineered to meet the needs of modern passenger vehicles, hybrids, SUVs, and EVs alike. The company’s portfolio includes fitments for high-demand models such as the Tesla Model Y, Tesla Model 3, Hyundai IONIQ 6, Kia EV6, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Toyota Prius.

As more Americans prepare for road trips during this historic summer travel season, Nexen Tire is encouraging drivers to prioritize tire inspections regardless of vehicle type, particularly as higher temperatures and heavier travel loads can accelerate wear and impact fuel economy or EV range.

For drivers hitting the road in an EV for the summer, the company also recommends:

• Download charging apps – Traveling long distances in an EV takes more planning. Mapping out a route before your trip and having a highly-rated charging station locator app ready can help reduce travel stress and range anxiety. 

• Shedding weight – Removing unnecessary weight can help maximize mileage and battery range while improving handling and braking performance.

• Keeping your battery between 20-80% – Batteries charge most quickly when their level is low, then the rate gradually slows as they approach full capacity. Because of this, making shorter, more frequent charging stops can get you moving again sooner than waiting to charge up to around 90% before driving farther.

• Patience, snacks and entertainment – Depending on the vehicle make and available charging station, it could take up to 40 minutes to charge your EV. Be sure to factor that in when it comes time for a charging stop. 

“Road trips remain one of the most affordable and flexible ways for families to travel, even as gas prices remain high,” added Hagan. “What stands out this year is how many drivers are looking for ways to maximize efficiency without sacrificing comfort or performance. Whether drivers own an ICE vehicle, hybrid, or EV, having the right tires can make a measurable difference in range, fuel economy, ride comfort, and overall driving confidence.”

For more information about Nexen Tire’s EV options or to set up an interview with a Nexen Tire America representative, please contact [email protected] or call (310) 374-6177.