Can you identify a tyre’s crucial ‘load rating’?

Only 6% of motorists in the UK are able to correctly identify a tyre’s load rating, according to a survey commissioned by Apollo Tyres.

The load rating signifies the maximum weight of the vehicle that can safely use the tyre, so choosing a tyre with an unsuitable load rating can compromise the vehicle’s performance and efficiency, as well as its safety.

Modern electric vehicles (EVs) are typically much heavier than conventional combustion engine alternatives, making it even more important for consumers to select a compatible tyre.

The poll of 1,000 motorists also found that 11% of men were able to identify the load rating mark on a tyre, compared to just 3% of women.

Additionally, just 14% of motorists are aware that tyres fitted to an EV normally need to be inflated to higher pressures, to ensure safe and efficient operation.

That proportion falls to only 6% among motorists aged 55 to 64, and peaks at over half (52%) among 18 to 24-year-olds. Crucially, among EV drivers, the percentage is still low – just 38%.

Tyre inflation rates are specific to each vehicle and are essential for maintaining optimal levels of grip, traction and rolling resistance.

“As Europe moves towards the mass adoption of EVs, it is becoming even more important for carmakers and the wider tyre industry – from manufacturers to retailers and fitters – to help consumers understand the crucial importance of load rating compatibility and the need to maintain correct inflation rates,” said Yves Pouliquen of Apollo Tyres.

“The need to educate extends beyond the point of purchase. EV owners understandably want to maximise driving range, but under-inflation can significantly increase rolling resistance and that equates to poor efficiency.”

Apollo Tyres offers a wide range of Vredestein passenger car tyres to suit internal-combustion-engine vehicles and EVs. In November 2022, Apollo Tyres launched its first dedicated EV tyre, the Vredestein Quatrac Pro EV. As well as being the first all-season EV tyre on the market, the new Quatrac Pro EV is the first EV tyre to be available with ‘High Load’ (HL) certification (255/40 R 20 variant), underlining its suitability for large all-electric cars and SUVs.