European Tyre Safety Ratings

In 2012, the European Union made moves to implement new rules on the labelling of tyres for sale. Much like washing machines or fridges, and even properties for sale, an easy indication of the tyre´s characteristics would be displayed on the label, enabling the buyer to choose their product based on such elements as efficiency, safety rating and noise.

The information on the tyre label included roll resistance, graded from “A” which is the best performance, to a “G” rating, the lower end of the scale in tests. Tyres with a higher resistance increase the workload of the engine, in turn leading to higher fuel costs.

Adherence to wet surfaces was also a graded factor on the label, once again graded “A” to “G”, with “A” showing the best performance. Across the spectrum of the rating scale, the braking distance between a grade “A” and a grade “G” tyre may be as much as 18 metres, significantly reducing the chance of avoiding a collision in the event of having to brake in wet weather. Of course, driving skills and ability can also allow for more compensation by increasing the distance between you and the vehicle in front, for example.

Noise level is also included in the tyre rating, again, this can be determined by other factors such as the road itself. In many places, so called “quiet tarmac” has been installed to reduce noise, but the tyre noise rating is based on an average.

When buying new tyres, always check the labelling system to ensure you know the quality of the tyres to be installed on your vehicle. Poor quality may increase risk and with tyre safety, compromise if not an ideal agenda.