Michelin e.Primacy vs Wanli SP022 EV: As China’s electric vehicle market surges forward, led by innovators like NIO, the question arises: Can Chinese tire manufacturers rise to the challenge of producing high-quality EV-specific tires? Enter the battle between Michelin e.Primacy and Wanli SP022 EV. On one side, we have the Michelin e.Primacy, a product from arguably the world’s best tire manufacturer, known for its relentless innovation and superior quality.
On the other, the Wanli SP022 EV, a promising contender from the budget-friendly, state-owned Chinese firm Guangzhou Vanlead Group. This isn’t just a comparison; it’s a high-stakes battle of performance, technology, and prestige, setting the stage for a showdown between a global heavyweight and an ambitious local hero in the rapidly evolving arena of EV tires. Can Wanli rise to meet the gold standard set by Michelin, or will the veteran maintain its top spot? The stage is set for an electrifying face-off.
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Results: Michelin e.Primacy vs Wanli SP022 EV
Results below were taken from the 2022 China Dealer EV Tire Test. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin e.Primacy vs Wanli SP022 EV based on the relevant performance category. The e.Primacy was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
The tire size of interest is 215/55 R17 which is a common tire size for BYD Yuan EV and the MG ZS EV. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Electric Vehicle 2020 Aion S.
Wet
The Michelin e.Primacy and Wanli SP022 EV tires exhibit distinct performances in wet conditions. In terms of wet braking from 80 km/h to 0, the Michelin e.Primacy takes 30.9 meters to stop, while the Wanli SP022 EV performs slightly better, needing only 30.2 meters, a difference of 0.7 meters favoring the Wanli.
However, when navigating a wet slalom, the Michelin e.Primacy demonstrates superior agility, completing the course in 7.84 seconds compared to the Wanli’s slower 8.39 seconds, indicating the Michelin tire is more responsive in wet maneuvering by a margin of 0.55 seconds. Each tire has its advantages: the Wanli SP022 EV stops quicker, but the Michelin e.Primacy offers better handling in wet conditions.
SP022 EV :
- +2% in wet braking
- -7% in wet slalom
Rolling Resistance
In the indirect measurement of rolling resistance, where the distance traveled from 30 km/h to 0 was recorded, the Michelin e.Primacy and Wanli SP022 EV tires show distinct performances, which are crucial for electric vehicle (EV) battery range. The Michelin e.Primacy traveled 399.2 meters before coming to a stop, while the Wanli SP022 EV stopped sooner at 373.1 meters.
This indicates that the Michelin e.Primacy has a lower rolling resistance, as it continues to roll further when decelerating from the same speed. Although this wasn’t a direct rolling resistance measurement, the longer distance implies that the e.Primacy is more efficient, potentially offering better battery range for EVs. Clearly, in this aspect, the Michelin e.Primacy outperforms the Wanli SP022 EV, making it a superior choice for those looking to maximize their EV’s efficiency and driving range.
SP022 EV :
- -7% in rolling distance
Dry
In dry conditions, the Michelin e.Primacy and Wanli SP022 EV tires exhibit varying performances. For dry braking from 100 km/h to 0, the Michelin e.Primacy requires 41.9 meters to stop, outperforming the Wanli SP022 EV, which needs 43.5 meters; this means the e.Primacy stops 1.6 meters shorter, indicating better braking efficiency. When it comes to dry acceleration, the difference is marginal; the e.Primacy accelerates slightly faster, taking 8.4 seconds compared to the 8.5 seconds of the Wanli, a negligible 0.1-second difference.
However, in the dry slalom test, which measures agility and grip, the Wanli SP022 EV significantly outshines the e.Primacy, completing the course in 11.45 seconds versus the e.Primacy’s 13.81 seconds. This substantial 2.36-second difference suggests the Wanli tire provides better maneuverability and speed in dry conditions. In summary, while the Michelin e.Primacy offers better stopping power and slight acceleration benefits, the Wanli SP022 EV excels in dry handling and agility.
SP022 EV :
- -4% in dry braking
- -1% in dry acceleration
- +21% in dry slalom
Noise
In terms of interior noise, the Michelin e.Primacy and Wanli SP022 EV tires show nearly identical performances. The Michelin e.Primacy registers at 60.1 decibels, while the Wanli SP022 EV is just a touch louder at 60.3 decibels. This marginal 0.2-decibel difference suggests that both tires offer a similarly quiet ride, with almost no noticeable difference in the level of interior noise they produce. For drivers prioritizing a serene driving environment, either tire would be a suitable choice as they both provide a comparably low level of noise..
SP022 EV :
- ~0% in interior noise (+0.2 dB)
Price
In terms of price for the 215/55 R17 tire size, there’s a significant difference between the Michelin e.Primacy and the Wanli SP022 EV. The e.Primacy is priced at ¥1400 (approximately $198), while the SP022 EV comes in at a much lower ¥900 (around $127). This makes the SP022 EV about 55% cheaper than the e.Primacy.
Tire size: 215/55 R17
e.Primacy: ¥ 1400 ($198)
SP022 EV : ¥ 900 ($127)
Difference: -55% cheaper for SP022 EV
Summary
As a tire expert, I’ve observed that the Wanli SP022 EV impresses in specific areas, particularly in the dry slalom and wet braking tests. Its performance in the dry slalom was notably agile, outpacing many expectations, and its wet braking distance is commendably short. These results are quite remarkable and reflect well on the tire’s capabilities in certain conditions.
However, it’s important to note the disappointment in the rolling resistance department. The Michelin e.Primacy remains the maestro here, showcasing its superior engineering by offering less resistance, which is crucial for better fuel efficiency and extended EV range. This aspect of performance is where the e.Primacy really shines, mastering the delicate balance of handling and efficiency, a target that many tires struggle to meet.
Despite this, the Wanli’s price point cannot be overlooked. Its affordability makes it a compelling choice for those who are budget-conscious but still want a tire that performs admirably in several key areas. The decision between the two might come down to what you value more: the all-around excellence and efficiency of the Michelin e.Primacy or the impressive specific performances and attractive price of the Wanli SP022 EV. As always, it’s about finding the right balance for your needs and priorities.