Have heard the same that Teslas eat tires like crazy. But why is that where their weight is comparable to a regular minivan. Is it due to the fast acceleration. If so can tire life be extended if the user is gentle on the accelerometer from zero.

Almost all tire wear comes from accelerating and decelerating. Some from turning and cornering. Basically anytime you are asking them to stick to the road when the car's velocity is changing. Just coasting in a straight line does not cause any significant wear, regardless of weight. (Unless the tires are grossly under-inflated.)

EVs eat tires when people drive them like they're on a race track, which is most of the time.

Acceleration combined with the style many EV manufacturers chose. Lots of “sporty” looks leaning on large rims with low profile tires.