Tyre Labelling

The three types of labels you usually see on tyres in the UK are the branded label, the energy performance label, and the tyre specification label. Car tyre labels in the UK provide essential information regarding the tyre’s performance, safety features, and specifications. These labels help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.

The branded label is straightforward and identifies the manufacturer of the tyre. This label features the manufacturer’s logo, which is instantly recognisable and assures customers of the brand’s reputation and quality. The branded label doesn’t contain detailed technical information but tells consumers and retailers the origin and branding of the tyre.

The energy performance label contains several important elements, it tells you the fuel efficiency of a tyre (rated from A to G – A being the most and G the least), wet grip (also rated from A to G), noise emission (rated in decibels and up to three soundwaves, one being the lowest and three the noisiest).

Since May 2021, these labels also feature QR codes that link to the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL) database.

The tyre specification label tells you the size specification of a tyre (it’s width, aspect ratio, and diameter), the load index and speed rating (the maximum amount of weight a tyre can support), and sometimes, the tyres seasonal performance (usually with symbols that correspond to cold, heat, mud, and snow).

Tyre specification labels will also include construction details, like whether it’s a radial or bias-ply tyre and if any specific technology was used in its manufacture.

Energy performance labels on tyres are still required in the UK after Brexit, as the UK has retained similar standards to those established by the European Union for tyre labelling to help with consistency across regulation and avoid upheavals in providing information about fuel efficiency, wet grip, and noise emissions.

Tyre labels are made from durable materials like strong paper and synthetic films such as polypropylene or polyester, paired with robust adhesives. These materials can withstand various conditions, from moisture and temperature changes to physical handling and are resilient to tears, water, and chemicals. The adhesives stick firmly to the tyre and won’t come off during transport or storage.

High-quality printing on these materials ensures that all the necessary information, including text and QR codes, stays clear and readable. The inks are resistant to UV light and rain, ensuring the labels remain legible.

Tyre labels use pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) like acrylic and rubber-based adhesives. Acrylic adhesives are favoured for their strong bonding, UV resistance, and durability across high and low temperatures. Rubber-based adhesives provide excellent initial tack and flexibility, guaranteeing the labels stay firmly attached to the tyre surface.

In the UK, the content on specification labels and energy performance labels on tyres is regulated by the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA). These organisations regulate national standards that align closely with the European Union regulations for tyre labelling.