New online tool for tyre labeling system

9th October 2012

With new regulations on tyre labeling due to take effect from 1 November, Continental Tyre has added a new online tool to its website to give a comprehensive overview of the new labels – including how to read them, the implications for different industry sectors and their relationship to the cost of driving.

It allows the user to quickly find individual label values quickly by simply entering details of the axle position, tyre size, load and speed ratings and tread pattern, at www.continental-tyres.co.uk/truck.

Explaining what they have done, Tracey Hyem, the marketing manager for Continental Commercial Tyres, said:  “The introduction of the new EU tyre label is a step in the right direction in terms of providing clear information about the safety, quality and environmental performance of tyres.  But in addition to the label values, it is also important to be aware that characteristics such as mileage, dry grip, retreadability and durability are not covered by the label, all of which contribute to the overall cost and quality of a tyre.”

Continental has tested all relevant commercial vehicle tyres in its product range in accordance with the methods prescribed by the EU to classify each product according to fuel efficiency, wet grip and external noise emissions.

Introduced as part of an ongoing EU campaign to reduce noise pollution and improve energy efficiency, EU directive 1222/2009, as it is snappily known, is intended to contribute towards the goal of cutting 20% of Europe's energy consumption by 2020.

Unlike passenger car and transporter tyres, there is no legal requirement to physically display the EU label sticker on truck and bus tyres.