Updated tire labeling rules have taken effect in the EU: what will change for drivers
5 May 14:30
The European Union has updated its approach to tire labeling. From now on, labels must include more information about tire safety and intended use, including a hydroplaning resistance rating and a special indicator for electric and hybrid vehicles, according to "Komersant Ukrainian"
The European tire labeling system already includes ratings for several key parameters: rolling resistance, wet grip, external noise level, as well as markings for tires suitable for severe snow or ice conditions.
The European Commission explains that such a label is intended to help consumers compare tires in terms of safety, energy efficiency, and noise levels.
What’s changing in tire labeling
The updated rules place greater emphasis on tire performance in challenging road conditions. One of the new key indicators will be resistance to hydroplaning.
Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water forms between the tire and the road, causing the tire to lose contact with the road surface. In such a situation, the vehicle can become nearly uncontrollable, especially at high speeds.
The new indicator is intended to help drivers understand how well a tire maintains traction on wet roads.
How hydroplaning resistance will be rated
The aquaplaning resistance rating scale will be denoted by letters:
| Class | What it means |
|---|---|
| A | Highest level of resistance |
| B–D | average performance |
| E | lowest level of sustainability |
The best class is A, the lowest is E.
According to the data provided, the difference between the highest and lowest classes can be significant: when driving at 130 km/h, the distance before losing traction on wet asphalt can vary by up to 18 meters.
For the driver, this is not just a technical detail. On the highway, such a difference can mean an extra margin of safety during a downpour, a sharp maneuver, or when driving through a puddle.
New Symbol for Electric Vehicles and Hybrids
Another change concerns tires for electric vehicles. Tires designed forelectric vehicles and hybrids will be marked with a special symbol—a lightning bolt with a tire outline.
For now, the use of this symbol is voluntary for manufacturers.
However, starting in 2028, it will become mandatory for all tires designed for electric vehicles.
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Why Electric Vehicles Need Special Tires
Electric vehicles and hybrids have their own unique characteristics. They are often heavier than cars with internal combustion engines due to their batteries, and they also have high instantaneous torque.
Because of this, tires for electric vehicles must meet additional requirements:
- withstand greater weight;
- have lower rolling resistance;
- help conserve battery charge;
- reduce noise;
- be more resistant to wear;
- provide stable traction during rapid acceleration.
That is why a separate label for electric vehicles will be helpful for buyers.
What’s already on the European tire label
The current European tire label includes several key indicators. Among them:
- rolling resistance — affects fuel consumption or the range of an electric vehicle;
- wet grip — an important safety indicator during braking;
- external noise — indicates how loud the tire is while driving;
- snow symbol — for tires suitable for severe winter conditions;
- ice symbol — for tires suitable for extremely slippery conditions.
The European Commission notes that tire labeling is designed to help buyers better compare models and choose safer, more economical, and quieter tires.
Why this matters for Ukrainian drivers
Although the rules apply in the EU, they are also important for Ukraine. European tire brands are widely available on the Ukrainian market, and a significant portion of cars are imported from EU countries.
Therefore, the new labeling will gradually become visible to Ukrainian buyers as well. This is especially true for those who purchase:
- new European tires;
- tires for electric vehicles;
- tires for high-speed highway driving;
- summer tires for regions with frequent rain;
- premium models with high safety ratings.
How drivers should read the new label
When choosing tires, it’s important to look beyond just price, brand, and size. The new labeling will help you assess how a tire performs in real-world conditions.
Three parameters are particularly important:
| Index | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Wet grip | affects braking distance |
| Resistance to hydroplaning | indicates performance in puddles and heavy rain |
| Rolling resistance | affects fuel consumption or EV range |
For electric vehicles, you should also pay attention to the lightning bolt symbol with a tire outline.
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