Tires: 235/60 R16 to replace 235/70 R16?, carrying capacity, tire size

Question
I know that the issue between the reduction in size is a problem with load capacity... here is the question. I have an Explorer Hybrid. It has a smaller engine and so we are not allowed to tow or carry a load anyway. Is it okay to change the tire size know that it will NEVER tow?

Answer
Alexandra,

I am of the opinion that hybrids are a bit heavier than their non-hybrid counterparts because of the extra motor and the batteries.  That makes the load carrying capacity issue even more important.  From a tire's perspective, towing is not really an issue, except for the load carrying part.

Besides, the size change you have proposed is going to make your speedometer read 4 mph high - and that is going to affect the way the electric motor powers the vehicle.

I'd recommend against this type of change.