Why most new electric cars come without a spare tyre

Most new electric cars and many modern petrol or diesel models now do not include a full spare tyre. For Nepali buyers, this is becoming a common surprise once they open the boot.

Why carmakers are deleting the spare tyre

Two main reasons sit behind this trend:

• Weight reduction: EV battery packs are heavy. Dropping the spare tyre, wheel and tools helps keep overall vehicle weight in check, which supports better range from a single charge and improved efficiency.
• Limited space: Many electric cars use a *skateboard platform*, where the entire floor area is filled with the battery pack and electric motor components. That leaves very little room under the boot floor or cabin to store a conventional spare wheel.

What you get instead

Instead of a spare, most EVs now come with a tyre sealant kit and a small air compressor. These can temporarily fix minor punctures in the tread area so you can drive to a nearby tyre shop.

However, sealant kits cannot repair serious damage, such as a cut or burst in the sidewall. In those cases, owners must depend on roadside assistance or towing services. On highways, in remote districts, or in areas with poor mobile network, this can turn a simple puncture into a major disruption.

Is there a fix coming?

Some larger electric SUVs and pickup trucks still offer a full-size or space-saver spare tyre, often mounted under the body or on the tailgate. Future EV designs may also make better use of the front trunk (*frunk*) or other cavities to fit at least a compact spare.

For now, Nepali EV owners planning long or off-road trips should:

• Check tyre condition carefully before travelling
• Carry and learn how to use the supplied sealant kit and compressor
• Confirm what level of roadside assistance is included with their vehicle

Until carmakers redesign platforms to bring back practical spare tyre solutions, living without a spare remains part of everyday EV ownership.