How to Understand Tyre Safety and Performance Ratings

Tyre rating labels provide a straightforward way to compare tyre performance, assisting consumers in choosing the most suitable product for their needs.

These labels assess three criteria: wet grip, fuel efficiency, and external noise. This enables consumers to understand the safety and performance levels of each tyre.

However, more than a third (39%) of drivers purchase tyres without understanding the rating labels, potentially compromising their vehicle's performance and safety, according to a survey by Apollo Tyres.

"This survey highlights the need for stakeholders in the tyre industry to better inform buyers about tyre labels so they can make informed decisions," commented Yves Pouliquen, Commercial Vice President for EMEA at Apollo Tyres Ltd. "Currently," Pouliquen adds, "there is a wide variety of specialised tyres on the market, and ensuring consumers trust the label ratings will make it much more likely they choose the right ones for their personal needs and ensure they get good value for money."

The survey, conducted among 1,000 drivers in Spain, revealed that during their last purchase, only 41% of consumers received information from the seller—either in-store or online—about the importance of these ratings. This is despite the legal requirements introduced in 2012 (Regulation (EC) 1222/2009), which mandate retailers to provide this information. In 2021, the European Union reinforced these rules with an updated regulation (Regulation (EU) 2020/740), requiring clearer tyre labels, similar to those on household appliances, to highlight performance and efficiency.

Young drivers are the most aware of independent tyre ratings. Forty-seven percent of those aged 18 to 24 claim to know about grip, efficiency, and noise ratings. In contrast, awareness drops significantly among older drivers, with only 29% of those over 65 claiming the same.

Men showed greater knowledge than women: 46% of male drivers claimed to know about tyre ratings, compared to 37% of female drivers.

The survey also revealed that consumers value this type of product information positively. A clear majority (77%) stated that knowledge of these ratings will influence their future tyre choices.