When purchasing new truck tyres, you will always see the European tyre label. This label helps you compare tyres based on fuel efficiency, wet grip performance, and noise emissions.
However, it is not always clear what the symbols actually mean. What does an A rating really indicate, and is the highest label always the best choice for international transport? In this blog, we explain the European tyre label step by step.
The European tyre label is a mandatory information label for almost all tyres sold within the European Union. The purpose of this label is to provide buyers with insight into a tyre’s performance in several key areas.
By comparing the different ratings side by side, it becomes easier to objectively compare tyres. This is important because tyres have a significant impact on vehicle safety, fuel consumption and overall operating costs.
For transport companies, choosing the right tyres can save thousands of euros in fuel costs each year. In addition, safety also plays an important role, especially when driving in wet conditions.
The tyre label consists of 5 characteristics:
At the top, you will find the QR code (1). In the section below, the fuel efficiency (2) and wet grip (3) are displayed.
At the bottom of the label, the external rolling noise (4) and the winter performance symbol (5) are shown.
Each symbol represents a specific characteristic of the tyre. Below, each characteristic is explained in more detail.
The first symbol on the tyre label is the fuel pump icon. This section indicates how fuel-efficient a tyre is.
The rating ranges from A to E, with A representing the most fuel-efficient tyre. This classification is based on the tyre’s rolling resistance.
While driving, a tyre continuously deforms. This process requires energy. The less energy lost during this deformation, the lower the rolling resistance and the less fuel the vehicle consumes.
For trucks that cover long distances every year, this can make a significant difference. A tyre with low rolling resistance can noticeably reduce fuel consumption, which also lowers CO₂ emissions.
This is why a lot of attention is often paid to this rating when choosing tyres for international transport.
The second symbol on the tyre label shows a rain cloud. This characteristic indicates how well a tyre performs when braking on wet roads.
Here too, the rating ranges from A to E. An A rating means the tyre has a very short braking distance on wet asphalt, while an E rating indicates lower braking performance.
This rating has a direct impact on road safety. Especially for trucks, a small difference in grip can result in a significant difference in braking distance when the vehicle is fully loaded.
For this reason, many transport companies consider this rating just as important as the fuel efficiency score.
The third symbol on the tyre label shows a speaker. This section indicates how much noise a tyre produces while driving.
This refers to external rolling noise, which is the noise heard by bystanders when a vehicle passes by.
In addition to a value in decibels (dB), a noise class is also displayed.
Although many drivers assume this relates to noise inside the cabin, it only refers to noise outside the vehicle.
Some tyres feature a mountain symbol with a snowflake. This is known as the 3PMSF symbol, which stands for Three Peak Mountain Snowflake.
This symbol means the tyre has been officially tested for performance in winter conditions. The tyre meets strict requirements for traction and braking performance on snow.
This is particularly relevant for transport companies operating in countries such as Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Scandinavian countries, where winter conditions are common.
In several European countries, tyres carrying this certification are even mandatory during certain periods of the year.
In addition to the snowflake symbol, a tyre may also feature an M+S symbol.
This marking indicates that the tyre is suitable for use in mud and/or snow conditions. Although it is not an official certification, it shows that the tyre is designed to continue performing even when driving conditions are less than ideal and the road surface is not completely clean.
Although the tyre label contains a lot of useful information, it does not tell the whole story about a tyre’s quality.
Important characteristics such as service life, wear resistance and retreadability are not displayed.
For truck tyres, these are often the factors that have the greatest impact on total operating costs.
That is why professional transport companies usually look beyond the tyre label and also consider factors such as:
At BAS Parts & Tyres, you will find an extensive range of truck tyres for a variety of applications. Whether you are looking for tyres for international transport, regional distribution or winter conditions, there is always a suitable solution available.
Our specialists are happy to help you choose the right tyre based on fuel consumption, grip, service life and total operating costs.
Do you have questions after reading this blog? We are happy to help you. Contact us by phone or start a chat.
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