"From 1st November 2012, suppliers of tyres for passenger cars, light and heavy duty vehicles (C1, C2 and C3 tyres) will have to inform consumers about fuel efficiency, wet grip and noise classes in any technical promotional material, including web sites. Re-treaded tyres, offroad professional tyres and racing tyres will be exempt from this requirement.

Unlike household appliances, tyres are not always on display in the shops, so MEPs insisted that retailers be obliged to show the label to the buyer before the sale and also on or with bills. Potential incentives to promote better-performing tyres to consumers would be decided at national level. In principle, Member States would be allowed to provide incentives only for tyres ranked at least "class C" on fuel efficiency and wet grip.” (*)

ECE regulation for EU27 valid from 11/2012 on limiting/labelling tires for 

• Rolling resistance
  
• Noise
  
• Wet grip (for C3/Truck tires not decided yet; status today:limit only)

Label and rolling resistance limits*

Classes 11/2012: Limit 8.0[kg/t]

When a tire rolls, rubber components are deformed. Partly the deformation energy generated is dissipated into heat which is called rolling resistance. It can be understood as loss of energy causing additional fuel consumption. Within the scope of the “EU-regulation” a seven band grading system has been created classifying rolling resistance product performance in kilogram (tire-rolling resistance) per ton (total tire load). The rolling resistance value kg/ton is a product performance criterion caused by the tread and the casing of a tire. For most tires the rolling resistance ratio between tread casing is situated at approximately fifty-fifty. Thresholds have been adjusted according to the average European product performance.

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Label and noise limits*

Classes 11/2012

The noise label shows the exterior "coast-by" noise (with engine turned-off) measured at a certain distance (7 m from road center). Following the “EU-regulation” a three band grading has been developed based on the noise value in decibels. The reason for introducing noise labeling is with the intention to lower the EU-Health expenses based on noise nuisance. While traveling, one will not recognize the exterior noise as interior noise as there is no direct link between the two.

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The EU Tire Label *

Introduction timeline: Replacement

Introduction timeline: Original Equipment
 

*European Union press release 28.09.2009