When the new EU Legislation came in to force, every new tyre sold within Europe (with some exceptions) had to be labelled – like a fridge, freezer or light bulb. Therefore, since November 2012 the following label has been seen when shopping for new tyres:
You will notice that it bears a resemblance to the labels used for electric goods in the EU. However, unlike them, the tyre label doesn’t focus on energy ratings. It shows the grade given to 3 important categories that should be considered when choosing a tyre:
- Fuel Efficiency
- Wet Grip
- External rolling noise
For a detailed look at the label itself, and what each section means, visit the tyre label breakdown
Why is this being introduced?
Many important figures within the tyre industry called this new legislation the biggest change to hit the tyre market in over 50 years and they were not wrong.
This is why time was spent developing the following EU Tyre Label guide. We want to help you understand exactly what it is, why it was introduced and how it will affect you.
The main goal of the new legislation is to provide more information to motorists on the performance of tyres. By doing so, the EU hopes to increase road safety, tomake the purchasing process for tyres more cost-effective as well as to reduce the impact tyres have on the environment.
With each tyre on the market being tested and classified using the same criteria, vehicle owners will now be able to make a more informed decision when purchasing new tyres since it is easier to compare each tyre for their specific capabilities.
Who does this affect? This affects everyone from the tyre manufacturers, to the tyre suppliers, retailers (as well as the consumer.
Those within the tyre industry, have the obligation to ensure that the new legislation is followed. Manufacturers must also ensure that the tests they complete are objective and accurate.
All the data required should be handed down the chain to retailers. This is so all those involved can fully understand the productsthat are being sold. . Although these labels can benefit the customers, they do not give you the full picture that the tyre experts can give. For the customer, the labelling is only a positive thing. Not only does it allow the customer to quickly compare the tyres that are of interst based on standardised tests, it gives more information that will add confidence to the final decision.
Are all tyres included?
Not all tyre categories are covered by the legislation, only the following:
- Car tyres
- 4×4 tyres
- Van tyres
- Truck tyres
This label is not on racing, professional off road, spare, vintage, re-tread, motorbike or studded tyres.