Revised European Union (EU) labeling regulations for passenger car, light commercial vehicle and heavy bus/truck tires went into effect May 1, 2021. These revised regulations update and will replace those originally introduced in 2012 to further harmonize the information available when purchasing new tires.
The revised tire labeling scheme features rescaled categories that continue to summarize a new tire's rolling resistance’s influence on vehicle efficiency, wet braking ability and pass-by noise. The new tire labeling regulations also provide a way to identify a tire’s suitability for use in winter weather driving conditions, such as snow and ice.
The new European Product Database for Energy Labelling (EPREL) graphics and rescaled rating bins* featured on the new EU tire label are currently used for refrigerators/freezers, washing machines, dishwashers and electronic displays. During a transitional period, tires may be labeled with both an original and revised label.
From A (most efficient) to E (least efficient)
Rolling resistance is a tire attribute that can affect a vehicle's energy consumption. The lower the tire rolling resistance, the less energy required to drive the vehicle. For electric vehicles, tire rolling resistance influences vehicle range before recharging becomes necessary. For gasoline-powered vehicles, lower tire rolling resistance also results in a reduction of CO2 gasses emitted into the atmosphere through the vehicle’s exhaust.
From A (best) to E (worst)
Wet braking capabilities are an important element of a tire's performance, essential for accident avoidance and occupant safety.
From A (quietest) to C (noisiest)
Exterior tire noise is measured in decibels (dB). Noise levels are established by size, with narrower tires challenged by quieter targets than wider tires. Since a tire’s dB level is quantifiable, each size tire can only be compared amongst other tires of the same size.
The new label provides an option for passenger car tires (C1 class) to featuring the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol signifying it meets industry snow grip standards. And if applicable, an additional ice grip symbol for soft-compound Nordic winter tires.
Labeling regulation applies to:
The following tire categories are excluded from the regulation's scope:
While the EU label provides quantifiable ratings regarding the three required criteria, there are many other important tire performance factors for drivers to consider, including:
Always consider all tire characteristics that will help you to select the tires that best meet your driving needs.
*Not all of the rating bins are used for tires. The above examples are based on the European Commission's Impact Assessment when measured according to the test methods set out in Regulation EC 1222/2009.
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