Integrated Effects of Suspension Geometry and Tire Pattern Design on Vehicle Pull Reduction under Acceleration in High-Performance and Electric Vehicles

Torque steer is a phenomenon that is more prominently observed in high-performance vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs). This phenomenon occurs primarily due to asymmetric driveshaft angles, drivetrain structure, and suspension geometry. Additionally, tire characteristics, particularly lateral force (Tire Lateral Force), also play a significant role in affecting torque steer. Tire lateral force is strongly influenced by the contact patch dynamics and the geometric design of the tire tread pattern. This study focuses on analyzing the impact of tire tread pattern geometry on the relationship between torque steer and tire lateral force in such vehicles. Specifically, lateral force response variations (dfy/dfx) resulting from tread pattern block deformation were derived through finite element (FE) simulations. These simulations enabled the establishment of an analytical method for tread pattern evaluation and optimization. The developed characteristic parameter was validated by comparative analysis of physical test results and FE simulation data. Vehicle tests further confirmed the improvements in torque steer achieved by applying the optimized tread pattern design. Additionally, performance criteria for tire lateral force were established based on the maximum torque and output requirements typical of high-performance and electric vehicles. By utilizing the developed tread pattern characteristic parameter, it is expected that tires with enhanced resistance to torque steer can be designed. Such tires would contribute to superior steering performance and improved safety, particularly in high-torque EVs and high-performance vehicles.