In my weekly update from Which?, they highlight the new tyre energy labelling system being introduced later this year. From November, all new car tyres will need to display a new Energy label (similar to the labelling used for domestic appliances) giving information on rolling resistance, wet grip and noise. Three symbols will be on the new labels:-
1) A symbol with the tyre and fuel pump - a measurement of the tyre's rolling resistance carried out on a calibrated test rig. The lower the rolling resistance the better the fuel economy.
2) A symbol with the tyre and rain - a measurement of wet grip, to ensure manufacturers do not compromise on grip to acheive a get a good energy rating. The rating is based on wet braking in a straight line, carried out to a standard method on a controlled wet surface. Measurement is based on a standardised wet braking test. Industry analysts have estimated that using a set of grade A tyres over a set of grade G tyres, can result in a vehicle stopping in a 30% shorter distance. For comparison, the Which? wet grip assessments they use in their tyre tests, consider both straight line braking and traction, and resistance to aquaplaning in bends.
3) A symbol with the tyre and a speaker with sound waves coming out of the speaker - an assessment of noise generated by the tyre. One black sound wave emanating from the speaker is 3dB less than the forthcoming European limit (very quiet). Two sound waves - already compliant with the future European limit (fairly quiet). Three sound waves - compliant with the current European limit, but not with the new one (noisiest tyre allowable). Based on a trackside measurement. Whereas Which? considers measure external noise and internal noise (subjectively assessed by two testers in the car).
What is missing is a wear rating. Which? offer the only independent test results for tyre wear in the UK - whereas other publications use tyre manufacturer test data.
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Most, probably all but not sure, tyres already have treadwear rating, usually between 200 and 400 with 400 being harder wearing.
I welcome the new labelling, daresay it will be able to manipulated but better than nothing.
Soundwise, new tyres might be quiet enough, thats not to say that once half worn the noise won't drive you up the wall.
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>>Most, probably all but not sure, tyres already have treadwear rating, usually between 200 and 400 with 400 being harder wearing.
I think you'll find that's only required for the American market.
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And they're a big fat lie too.
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Treadwear ratings are not comparable between brands, so are not that useful.
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Energy labelling for tyres - -
