Fuel efficient tyres fitted at home or work

Tyres need energy to roll them in the direction of travel, due to the friction caused between the two surfaces. This is called rolling resistance. Rolling resistance amounts to approx. 20 per cent of a vehicle’s fuel consumption, and causes tyres to rise in temperature as they work. Fuel efficient tyres aim to reduce rolling resistance and, in turn, cut the energy needed to drive on them.

Manufacturers are reducing tyre energy consumption by:

• Designing tyres that are more aerodynamic and rigid.
• Creating rubber compounds that minimise internal movement.
• Designing tread patterns that roll more efficiently.

While there is nothing visible on eco friendly tyres that make them appear any different, each set should have a label which states its fuel efficiency grade. This has been a legal requirement since 2012 for all tyres sold in countries within the European Union. The label grades the tyre from A (best) to G (worst) and is split into three categories:

• The fuel efficiency class of the tyre.
• Braking and wet grip.
• The level of emitted noise.

If you want to identify tyres that have the highest energy efficiency, you should look for those that have class “A” on the label. Most tyres advertised as energy efficient should have an A or B rating.