Thoughts on Michelin Pilot Alpin 4 snow tires for 20" performance rims?

[jmbloom_m3p]

I run these as my winter tire. Get the Porsche N-spec version to get the model 3 235/40/19 size. The load rating of 92 is identical to the Performance 20" PS4S load rating. Telling the shop that you have a performance model will eliminate the need for discussion here. Should you need chains for very bad conditions, this particular N-spec tire runs wide and may cause fitment issue.

https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tire...dewall=Blackwall&partnum=34VR9PA4N0&tab=Sizes

XL load rating is explained poorly across the industry. It does not mean that 92 load rated tire caries less weight than a "92 XL" tire. The 92 is the bottom line. Take the 235/45/18 size for the Model 3. A load rating of 94 is the industry standard for this size. An "XL" in this size bumps it up to 98. This 98 is equivalent to any other tire with a 98 load rating.

https://www.tirerack.com/tires/Tire...8&rearWidth=235/&rearRatio=45&rearDiameter=17

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I am not sure you are correct on "XL load rating is explained poorly across the industry. It does not mean that 92 load rated tire caries less weight than a "92 XL" tire. The 92 is the bottom line. Take the 235/45/18 size for the Model 3. A load rating of 94 is the industry standard for this size. An "XL" in this size bumps it up to 98. This 98 is equivalent to any other tire with a 98 load rating."

The Load Index is a rating of load carrying but that is based on the max safe PSI for carrying the load indicated. Read this:

https://www.americastire.com/learn/load-range-load-index

You will see a straight 92 vs 92 XL both have the same load index but the non-XL is at 36 PSI max and the XL is up to 42 PSI. I believe the recommended tire pressures for the Tesla are well above 36 PSI. The XL tire has stronger sidewalls and can handle more tire pressure safely for the given weight vehicle. That is why the installers will not go out of spec. You may or may not get away with it. Depends on the car and the roads. Given the weight of the electric vehicle platforms, probably advisable to stay with XL rated.