Why do most cars nowadays not come with a spare tire?

[OArya]

Because most cars currently use run-flat tires. Concept of a spare tire: A spare tire refers to an extra tire for a car, with specifications identical to the original car tires. However, some vehicles use specially colored wheel rims for spare tires, compact spare tires, folding spare tires, or run-flat tires to remind the owner to inspect and replace faulty tires promptly. Types of spare tires: There are three types of spare tires: full-size spare tires, non-full-size spare tires, and run-flat tires. A full-size spare tire has the exact same specifications as the other four tires on the car and can replace any temporarily or permanently unusable tire. A non-full-size spare tire has a slightly smaller diameter and width than the other four tires, making it suitable only for temporary use and only on non-drive wheels. Run-flat tires, also known as safety tires or commonly referred to as 'anti-burst tires,' are officially termed 'tire pressure monitoring tires' in the industry.

[McCora]

Actually, many new cars don't come with spare tires nowadays, mainly to reduce weight for better fuel efficiency and environmental benefits. As a car enthusiast who frequently attends auto shows and test drives, I've noticed manufacturers are pushing lightweight designs. A single spare tire weighs over ten kilograms, and replacing it with a tire repair kit or run-flat tires can save significant weight. Run-flat tires allow driving about 80 kilometers after a puncture, and when paired with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), they can warn about pressure issues in advance, reducing emergencies. It's also more convenient for car owners: spare tires take up trunk space, many people don't know how to change them, and they often end up calling for roadside assistance. These changes make cars more fuel-efficient, increase storage space, and align with global carbon reduction trends. I've personally tried tire repair kits – just spray to temporarily fix a puncture, which is quite handy. While the absence of a spare might raise concerns about remote areas, modern road services have improved, and with mobile assistance, overall safety and reliability have increased.

[JasmineDella]

I've been driving for over thirty years, and when I switched from an old car to a new one, I noticed the spare tire was gone. In the past, every time I had a flat tire, I had to pull out the jack and change it myself, which was both exhausting and dangerous. Now, manufacturers say the main reasons are weight reduction and fuel efficiency—spare tires are too heavy, so they're being replaced with lightweight tools or special tires. This change is actually quite good: modern cars come with tire pressure monitoring systems that can detect small issues early to prevent blowouts, and run-flat tires allow you to keep driving even after a puncture. It also frees up space—the trunk can now hold more luggage or camping gear. But I'm not used to it and always worry: what if the tools fail? Fortunately, there's 24-hour roadside assistance, and with just a tap on my phone, I can call a tow truck. It's progress, but it takes time to adapt to new habits, just like the evolution of cars from simplicity to intelligence.

[LailaDella]

From a technical perspective, the absence of a spare tire in cars is an innovative outcome. Run-flat tire technology allows continued driving even after a puncture, coupled with real-time alerts from tire pressure monitoring systems to identify issues, while reducing weight to improve fuel efficiency. This is particularly beneficial for electric vehicles, extending their range. Manufacturers also provide tire repair kits as a lightweight and user-friendly alternative. These advancements spare drivers the hassle of changing tires, enhancing overall safety and driving experience.