Over a third of drivers purchase tyres without knowing their key safety and performance ratings

A survey* commissioned by Apollo Tyres Ltd has found that over a third (35%) of motorists are buying replacement tyres without understanding rating labels, which could compromise the performance and safety of their vehicle.  

The survey polled motorists across Europe and identified that only 34% were informed by their tyre retailer – in-store or online – about the relevance and importance of these ratings during their last purchase. This is despite legal requirements introduced in 2012 (Regulation (EC) 1222/2009), mandating retailers to provide this information. In 2021, the EU strengthened these rules with an updated regulation (Regulation (EU) 2020/740), requiring clearer tyre labels – similar to those on household electrical appliances – to highlight performance and efficiency. 

Rating labels 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. 

Younger motorists are the most likely to be aware of a tyre’s independent ratings, with 43% of drivers aged 18-24 saying they knew about ratings for grip, efficiency and noise. By contrast, awareness drops significantly among older drivers, with only 27% of those aged 65 and over stating the same. 

Men showed greater awareness than women, with 48% of male drivers acknowledging they knew about tyre ratings, compared to just 29% of female drivers. 

The survey also found that consumers clearly value this kind of product information, with over half (64%) stating 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,” comments 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.”  

Apollo Tyres produces Vredestein premium passenger car tyres in Europe. The current portfolio includes summer, winter and all-season products, as well as specialised high-performance and EV-specific variants.  

Note to editors 
*Survey conducted by OnePoll; 1,000 respondents in each market.