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.
