With an increase in the number of drivers unaware of the need for keeping vehicles safe and maintained, an alarming number are do not know about tyre ratings.
A survey commissioned by Apollo Tyres Ltd has found that 45% of motorists are buying replacement tyres without understanding tyre ratings labels, which could compromise the performance and safety of their vehicle.
The survey polled 1,000 motorists in the UK and identified that only 16% were informed by their tyre retailer, wither in-store or online, about the relevance and importance of these tyre ratings during their last purchase. That is the lowest level among the eight European countries surveyed, which had an average of 34%.
Legal measures were introduced in 2012 (Regulation (EC) 1222/2009) that mandated tyre retailers to provide this information. In 2021, the EU strengthened these rules with an updated regulation (Regulation (EU) 2020/740), requiring clearer tyre labels. These are similar to those on household electrical appliances, helping to highlight performance and efficiency.
Tyre ratings are a concise way to compare the performance of tyres to help consumers decide on the right product for them. It rates them on three criteria – wet grip, fuel efficiency, and external noise – ensuring that consumers understand the safety and performance levels of each tyre.
Age factor in tyre ratings knowledge
Younger motorists are the most likely to be aware of tyre ratings, with 54% of drivers aged 18-24 saying they knew about data for grip, efficiency and noise. By contrast, awareness drops significantly among older drivers, with only 26% of those aged 65 and over stating the same.
The survey also found that consumers clearly value this kind of product information. In total, 40% stated that awareness of these ratings would influence their tyre choice in the future.
“This survey underscores the need for stakeholders across the tyre industry to better educate buyers about tyre labels so they can make informed purchase decisions,” commented Yves Pouliquen, Vice President Commercial EMEA at Apollo Tyres Ltd.
“There is now a very wide variety of specialised tyres on the market and ensuring that consumers are confident with the tyre label ratings will mean they are much more likely to select the right tyres for their individual requirements and ensure they are getting good value for money.”
