Peugeot E-3008: Why Are Its Wheels So Heavy?

With a unit weight of approximately 37 kg, the wheels of the new Peugeot E-3008 are heavy, and this is for very specific reasons.

“It’s the mechanics who will be happy”“. The information is conveyed to us jokingly, but the message is clear. With a very significant weight of 37 kg, each wheel (tire + rim) of the new Peugeot E-3008 will require a real physical effort from those responsible for handling them. Including mechanics.

It could also be said that tire manufacturers will be pleased, as electric cars are so heavy that the torture inflicted on the tires is very intense.

The first reason for such mass in the wheels of the Peugeot E-3008 is touched upon here. The new French SUV is heavy, very heavy. In its entry-level Allure 210 version priced at 39,990 euros after a 5,000 euro ecological bonus, with the “small” 73 kWh battery, it already weighs 2,183 kg. With the “large” 98 kWh battery, the weight increases by an additional 54 kg to reach 2,237 kg!

Within this mass, 148 kg already come from the wheels alone, whose generous dimensions (235/55R19 or 235/50R20 depending on the trim) are designed to better distribute the weight on the ground via a large footprint.

Engineers must then, through detailed calculations and advanced simulations, estimate the peak loads on the rolling components such as tires and rims. Reliability and safety depend on this.

Better regeneration during braking?

The inertia provided by these large, wide wheels impacts energy consumption. During acceleration, getting them rotating can be energy-consuming. This will greatly depend on driving style. Conversely, once in motion, inertia can be very beneficial for retaining speed.

During braking, this enormous mass being slowed down helps with energy recovery via the electric motors. And thus, range. However, it can already be presumed that the 2.2 tonnes in motion generate a very strong inertia…

The very large and heavy wheels also have advantages, notably in the wear of certain parts, but also present a challenge for suspension. Controlling the movement of such heavy rotating objects is a real challenge that only an electronically controlled suspension can manage.

In the end, the high weight of the wheels of the new Peugeot E-3008 addresses a mass problem. It’s a bit like a snake biting its tail.