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Oh and some other misconceptions:
Tires do NOT behave according to classical friction theory: F = µN (Amonton's Laws). That's because the rubber presses into the texture of the pavement and can generate grip that way. Maximum tractive force is generated in the 10% to 15% slippage range.
As a corollary: Larger tire footprints generate more grip. That's why race tires are smooth.
Tire wear? This is more about driving in a straight line (slow wear) vs going around a corner (fast wear). In the cornering mode, tires have to generate a slip angle in order to generate the force needed to move the mass of the vehicle. This slip angle (the difference between where the tire is pointed vs where it is actually going) abrades the rubber off the car. You see this as the "marbles" on race tracks.
Does more rubber on the road help improve treadwear? Yes, but mostly because it grips better and less slip angle is needed.
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