The EU Tire label is designed to show information regarding 3 criteria. However, there are many other important performance factors to consider including:
At least there are up to 11 relevant factores that standard tyre tests include in addition to the label criteria (see table below).
Automotive manufacturers require the very highest standard across all these performance factors before they approve tyres for their new vehicles.
Furthermore, widely published tyre tests also take these performance factors into account and therefore continue to be an excellent source of independent information regarding the total performance of a tyre.
"With effect from 2012 tires will be marked with an „energy label“ similar to the one seen on new fridges. We believe: It’s good that the EU has defined a Tire Label with regards to energy efficiency, wet grip and noise. With it drivers can obtain some information about a tire’s properties. The statutory labelling however cannot replace the comprehensive and detailed ADAC tire test as the best source of information to assist a purchase decision."
Test Criteria | Tire Label | Tires Tests |
Dry | ||
Driving Stability | No | Yes |
Handling | No | Yes |
Braking | No | Yes |
Wet | ||
Braking | Yes | Yes |
Aquaplaning -longitude | No | Yes |
Aquaplaning - latitude | No | Yes |
Handling | No | Yes |
Cornering grip | No | Yes |
Noise | ||
Noise inside | No | Yes |
Noise outside | Yes | Yes |
Rolling resistance | Yes | Yes |
Wear | No | Yes |
PAH* oil level | No | Yes |
High speed | No | Yes |
Legend | ||
Yes | included | *Polycyclic Aromatic |
No | not included | Hydrocarbons |