The European Tyre Labelling Regulation (EC/1222/2009) introduced labelling requirements for vehicle tyres to the display the fuel efficiency, wet grip and external rolling noise information on labels.

For rolling resistance/fuel efficiency and wet grip, a colour scale from Class A (green) to Class G (red) must be provided, and for rolling external noise a pictogram denoting the noise level is required as well as a numerical value for noise in dB.

 

Fuel efficiency – The difference between a ‘G’ class and an ‘A’ class for a complete set of tyres could reduce fuel consumption by up to 7.5% *

Wet grip – The wet grip section of the label grades a tyre on how well it brakes in wet conditions from Class ‘A’ (shortest braking distance) to Class ‘G’ (longest braking distance). The difference between a set of ‘A’ class tyres and a set of ‘G’ class tyres could be a stopping distance up to 30% shorter, which in a passsenger car travelling at 80 km/h could mean a braking distance of up to 18m shorter*.

(* Source: European Commission impact assessment SEC (2008) 2860  When measured according to the test methods set out in Regulation EC 1222/2009)

External rolling noise – The external rolling noise displays the noise generated by the tyres when fitted to a passenger car coasting by .ie. without any power input, or braking.  This value is displayed in decibels (dB) and also displayed in picture format using a three wave scale. The waves correspond to how well the tyre has performed against future tyre noise legal limits.

 

Tyre ‘Distributors’, which includes tyre retailers, are obliged to provide customers with information relating to the tyre label during the sales process.

Miltcon Services Ltd. is engaged in undertaking market surveillance activities in relation to compliance with the requirements of Regulation 1222/2009 in Ireland.