Tyre Labelling
EU tyre labels give useful information about tyre performance. They help you compare tyres based on fuel efficiency, wet weather grip and external noise levels, so you can make a more informed choice when buying new tyres.
All new tyres supplied for cars, vans and 4x4s come with an EU tyre label. These labels are designed to help drivers understand key tyre characteristics more clearly.
The tyre label focuses on three main areas: fuel efficiency, wet grip & braking and external noise. Together, these ratings make it easier to compare different tyres at a glance.
Why do we need EU tyre labels?
Clearer tyre information
EU tyre labels are designed to help drivers compare tyres more easily, especially when choosing tyres for different weather conditions, driving needs or regular long-distance travel. They provide a simple and standardised way to understand how tyres perform in key areas.
What do EU tyre labels look like?
The label usually includes three performance ratings shown clearly in separate sections.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is rated from A (most efficient) to E (least efficient). Better fuel efficiency can help reduce fuel costs and lower CO₂ emissions.
Wet Grip & Braking
Wet grip measures how well the tyre performs in wet road conditions. A stronger wet grip rating can mean shorter braking distances and better control.
External Noise
This indicates how much noise the tyre creates outside the vehicle while driving. Lower noise levels can improve comfort and reduce road noise impact.
Fuel efficiency explained
Why fuel efficiency matters
Tyres with better fuel efficiency create less rolling resistance, which means the engine uses less energy to move the vehicle. This can help reduce fuel consumption over time.
Choosing a tyre with a good fuel efficiency rating may also help reduce CO₂ emissions, making it a more economical and environmentally conscious choice.
Rating scale
Fuel efficiency ratings generally run from A to E. A tyre with an A rating is more fuel efficient than a tyre with a lower grade.
Even a small difference in rolling resistance can make a noticeable difference over thousands of miles.
Wet grip and braking distances
Wet road safety
Tyres are rated for their combined wet grip and braking performance. This shows how effectively the tyre can help the vehicle stop in wet conditions.
Better wet grip can improve confidence and safety in rain, especially during emergency braking.
Why the rating matters
The difference between wet grip ratings can affect stopping distance. A higher-rated tyre may stop noticeably sooner in wet conditions than a lower-rated alternative.
This makes wet grip one of the most important tyre label categories for everyday safety.
External noise
What external noise means
External noise refers to the sound the tyre creates outside the vehicle while it is driving on the road. It is measured in decibels (dB).
This rating helps compare how noisy or quiet a tyre may be in normal driving conditions.
Why it is useful
Quieter tyres can help reduce outside road noise and may contribute to a more refined driving experience. It is another useful point of comparison when choosing new tyres.
Are the labels standardised across tyre brands?
Yes – labels are designed for comparison
EU tyre labels are standardised, which means drivers can use them to compare tyres from different manufacturers using the same basic rating format.
This makes it easier to compare tyres across different brands when shopping for the best option.
Need help choosing tyres?
Browse our tyre range or contact us if you need help understanding tyre labels and choosing the right tyre for your vehicle.
