Understanding Tyre Labelling and Ratings

Selecting the right tyres for a vehicle is neither about a trusted brand nor about simply picking up the cheapest set. This is where the EU tyre labelling system comes into the frame. Now, UK drivers have the facility to access all the standard information about a tyre. Factors like fuel efficiency, wet grip, noise emissions, and suitability come under this umbrella. Decoding a tyre label helps you select a suitable product at the right time. This is how you can make the most out of your vehicle.

Considering all these aspects, we are going to emphasise different label categories in detail. Meanwhile, we will offer practical tips on how to apply this knowledge more effectively.

What Is the EU Tyre Label?

The system was first introduced in 2012 and updated in May 2021. This is a pictorial guide affixed to every tyre sold in Europe, which provides key data on:

1. Fuel Efficiency (rolling resistance)

2. Wet Grip (braking performance on wet roads)

3. Noise Emission (external noise level)

4. Snow and Ice Performance (where applicable)

5. QR code linking to the EPREL database for full tyre specifications

Overall, the label’s purpose is to help consumers compare different tyres at a glance rather than solely depending on marketing claims or price. Here, the data is presented using a uniform A–E or 1–3 grading system and clear symbols. The primary purpose of this label is to convey complex performance characteristics in simple and practical terms.

Fuel Efficiency Rating

In tyres, fuel efficiency is measured by rolling resistance, which indicates how much energy is lost as it rolls along the road. Lower rolling resistance means that the engine will use less fuel to maintain the speed. Typically, A-rated tyres are known for their fuel efficiency, resulting in less fuel consumption compared to D- or E-rated tyres. So, you can save a lot of fuel over the lifespan of an A-graded tyre, which typically runs around 40,000–60,000 miles. 

How it is graded:

• A (Green): Best rolling-resistance performance

• B

• C

• D

• E (Red): Poorest rolling-resistance performance

Every letter grade corresponds to a range of specific measured values. So, comparing two tyres side by side with different fuel-efficiency grades helps you anticipate how much fuel each will consume if the driving conditions are identical.

Wet Grip Rating

A tyre’s ability to maintain traction on rain-soaked UK roads defines its value. To evaluate it properly, wet grip labels use braking distance tests at 80 km/h, which are conducted on standardised wet tracks. An A-rated tyre's wet grip can stop up to 18 metres shorter than an E-rated tyre in the same condition. This is a huge margin.

Grading Scale:

• A (Green): Shortest wet-braking distance

• B

• C

• D

• E (Red): Longest wet-braking distance

Each increment represents a 3-6 metre difference in braking distance. So, you can choose a higher-rated tyre if driving safely in winter or rainy season is your priority.

Noise Emission Rating

Tyre noise can distract drivers while annoying the people around a vehicle. The noise emission label indicates the external rolling noise a tyre produces. It is measured in decibels, where a quieter tyre reduces neighbourhood noise pollution and improves cabin comfort.

Label categories:

• A (One Soundwave Icon): Low external noise (≤69 dB)

• B (Two Icons): Moderate external noise (70–74 dB)

• C (Three Icons): High external noise (≥75 dB)

The icon format helps you compare tyres easily. Just know that fewer soundwaves mean quieter operation. For example, a B-rated tyre at 72 dB is roughly 1.4 times noisier than an A-rated tyre at 68 dB.

Snow and Ice Performance Icons

3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake)

The Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol helps identify if the Car Tyres Coventry meets a minimum performance standard in severe snow conditions. This system is not like generic “snowflake” graphics, where tyres need to pass traction tests on hard-packed snow. Meanwhile, building on the EU label introduces an additional symbol below the main label for 3PMSF.

Ice Grip Symbol

This is a relatively new addition, where the Ice Grip applies to tyres tested for braking performance on the ice. These tests follow ISO 19447 standards, which measure how well a tyre is stopping on an iced surface. A tyre including this symbol builds a driver’s confidence in Scandinavian conditions. 

QR Code and EPREL Database

EPREL (European Product Database for Energy Labelling) is an online repository. This is where manufacturers or authorised representatives register detailed energy-labelling data for tyres coventry. To get this data, you can scan the QR code on a tyre’s label, which will direct you to its EPREL entry. Typically, you will get all this data:

• Full technical specifications

• Manufacturer details and model variants

• Extended performance data (e.g., aquaplaning resistance, cornering grip)

• Production date and size options

Conclusion

Tyre labelling and ratings are beyond just a sticker. This is a facility for drivers by which they can understand the safety, efficiency, comfort, and compliance of a tyre. The approach helps one choose the right set for their vehicle, whether it is based on fuel economy, wet-grip performance, noise levels, or winter credentials. Each label category offers practical data and encourages one to make informed decisions. Meanwhile, the accessibility of the EPREL database via QR codes shifts the game, as you can have the complete verified specifications in hand. 

This should be the approach to selecting tyres to have peace of mind in light of today’s strict laws and regulations. We hope this article helped you understand the concept.