Survey: Lack of tyre label knowledge in European drivers
2
min. read
An industry survey conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by Apollo Tyres has revealed that more than one third (35%) of drivers across Europe are purchasing replacement tyres without understand their rating labels, which may well compromise the safety and performance of their vehicle.
It is also interesting and alarming to note that the survey points out that only 34 per cent were informed by their tyre retailer (either in-store or online) about the relevance and importance of these ratings when they last bought a tyre. Meaning that a worrying 66 per cent of drivers were not guided by their tyre retailer on tyre rating labels.
This is despite the legal requirement introduced in 2012 (Regulation EC 1222/2009) that requires retailers to provide this vital information. These rules were then strengthened in 2021 when the EU updated the regulation (Regulation EU 2020/740) stating that tyre labels had to be as clear as those found on household electrical appliances highlighting performance and efficiency.
The survey also revealed that younger drivers between the ages of 18 up to 24 were most likely to be aware of a tyre’s independent rating with 43 per cent stating they understood tyre ratings were related to grip, efficiency and noise levels. However, this awareness significantly reduces amongst older drivers as only 27 per cent aged over 65 were aware.
Other facts include men having a greater awareness than women with 48 per cent of male drivers understanding the importance of tyre labelling compared to 29 per cent of female drivers. Plus 64 per cent of drivers admitted that being aware of tyre ratings would influence their choice of tyre.
With a very wide variety of specialised tyres now available it is crucial that retailers make sure consumers understand and are confident with tyre labels enabling them to select the right tyres for their individual driving requirements.
Yves Pouliquen, Vice President Commercial EMEA at Apollo Tyres
Tags
Have a suggestion or spotted a mistake?
Read also
2
min. read
1
min. read
2
min. read
2
min. read
1
min. read
3
min. read
tyre.media - creative tyre media
©2026 tyre.media