New EU Tyre Label Rolling Out

First introduced in 2012, the EU Tyre Label was created to provide motorists with key information regarding the safety elements of a tyre, as well as their impact upon the environment. 

The original legislation, formally known as ‘The European Tyre Labelling Regulation (EC/1222/2009)’, introduced mandatory performance-based labels to be displayed on tyres as a requirement - with some exceptions, such as classic car tyres, motorbike tyres and truck tyres.

Benefits of the EU Tyre Labels

Tyre labelling provides motorists with comparative information on the performance of tyres in three key categories:

• Fuel Efficiency
• Wet Grip
• External Rolling Noise

Each tyre is judged, evaluated and scored using the same tyre testing process, making it quick and easy to compare different makes and models of tyres.

New EU Tyre Label: What Has Changed?

Following a recent review of the labelling system, some new changes have come into force this year – in a bid to better enhance the labels.

In terms of the information that is given on the EU Tyre Labels, this remains the same. The 3 performance scores are still present - revolving around Fuel Efficiency, Wet Grip and External Rolling Noise.

However, the label itself has undergone a slight redesign and some of the label scores have been streamlined.

The key points of difference of the new EU Tyre Label include:

• Additional icons regarding snow conditions and/or grip in icy conditions – important for winter tyres andall season tyres.
• An ABC score has replaced the previous use of sound wave icons for noise.
• A reclassification of label scores - D is the new E, whilst F and G have been merged to form E.
• Labels will have a QR code that links to the EU product database (EPREL).
• Previously exempt, bus tyres and truck tyres will also be covered.

New EU Tyre Label Transition

Throughout 2021 a transition period will be taking place as appropriate tyre labels are used.

For any tyres that have been manufactured following the 1st of May 2021, these will come with the new labelling attached to the tyre. 

Consider More Than Just the Tyre Label

When buyingnew car tyres, it is important to remember that although the new EU tyre labelling is generally a good principle, it should not be the only thing that you base a purchase on.

For example, on average a magazine performing a tyre test - such as the annual Auto Express summer and winter tyre tests, carried out to find the best in the market - will evaluate 15 different criteria. Whereas a manufacturer will test well over 50 different areas when developing a tyre.

So, although the tyre label is a beneficial tool and a good starting point in disclosing the capabilities of a tyre, make sure to look further than the tyre label.

If you are unsure as to what to look for, we have a quick guide available on finding the right tyres for your car.