Tyre labelling

Key points

• The EESC welcomes this new review of the overall performance and quality, as well as labelling, of tyres used in the EU, in keeping with its own recommendations.
• The EESC agrees that improving the labelling of tyres will give consumers more information on fuel efficiency, safety and noise, thus allowing them to make informed, profitable and environment-friendly decisions. The EESC also welcomes the strengthening of the requirement to display the label in situations where consumers do not see the tyre(s) they are considering buying.
• The EESC acknowledges that the proposal for a regulation will help improve the effectiveness of the tyre labelling scheme and to maximise its contribution to the modernisation and decarbonisation of the transport sector. Developing, producing and re-treading high-quality tyres can indirectly make a considerable contribution to safeguarding high added-value European manufacturing and, consequently, high-quality employment.
• The EESC welcomes the increase in the number and importance of safety-related aspects among the parameters appearing on the label. The proposal for compulsory inclusion on the label of performance on snow and the brand new ice logo is a positive initiative, but it should be introduced gradually. Similarly, the inclusion of mileage and abrasion could be encouraged in the future. The future introduction of labelling for re-treaded C3 tyres is to be welcomed too.
• The existing parameter classes are appropriate for at least one additional re-examination cycle.
• The EESC approves the proposal's plan to include tyres in the existing product registration database in order to improve market surveillance and information for consumers.
• The deadline for implementing the regulation should be extended by one year to allow for detailed preparation.