In times of increased emission levels and enormous fuel prices, many car owners wonder how they can best protect the environment and their own wallets. The answer to all these questions is quite simple: by buying new tires. However, they shouldn't just be any tires – low-rolling resistance tires are the motto. Even though fuel-saving tires will only become mandatory according to the European Union from November 2012, you can already purchase them today and do something good for the environment and your own wallet. Did you know: around 20% of fuel consumption is attributable to the tires, which means that every fifth tank filling is due to your own car tires. And now the question arises: how is that possible and how can I positively change my fuel consumption?
Saving with low-rolling resistance tires
The tire industry has recognized the advantages of new car tires, the special low-rolling resistance tires, for some time now. The secret apparently lies in so-called reinforcing fillers: instead of the usual carbon-black-based tire compounds, low-rolling resistance tires rely on a silica or silica-silane compound. Here, the interaction of properties such as abrasion and tear resistance as well as tire adhesion is decisive. Through new rubber compounds and optimal tire profiles, the rolling resistance of car tires is now to be reduced so that the tires deform less and energy losses can thus be avoided. These new findings are now intended to ensure that the tire runs more smoothly, the tires deform less, and thus fuel consumption is lower and CO2 emissions are reduced.
Advantages of low-rolling resistance tires
Whether in the city or in the countryside, modern low-rolling resistance tires contribute a lot to the potential for savings. Especially at higher speeds, which are permitted on motorways for example, air resistance comes into play more strongly than rolling resistance. Thus, with energy- and fuel-saving tires, a net gain of over 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers can be achieved. A result that is definitely worth it, especially for frequent drivers.
Further tests have also shown that around 4% of fuel can be saved on average through low-rolling resistance tires. In urban areas, the rate is 3%, outside urban areas 5%, and on motorways around 4%, so that all in all, you arrive at an average of 4%.
Another advantage of low-rolling resistance tires: due to the low rolling resistance, less noise is also produced on the roads. This benefits not only the driver but also the residents in villages and cities.
Deficiencies of low-rolling resistance tires
Now, some critics are criticizing energy efficiency due to safety concerns. In the past, low rolling resistance has had a negative effect on, among other things, wet weather properties. However, experts agree that large tire manufacturers such as GreenX, Energy Saver, Saves Fuel, or Efficient Grip are characterized by good wet grip, optimal service life, special dry properties, and good rolling resistance of the tires. Anyone who wants to be on the safe side will not make a mistake with current test report reviews of low-rolling resistance wheels.
Anyone who has already equipped themselves with a new pair of tires does not need to despair. Pay attention to specific low-rolling resistance tires for your next purchase and trim your current tires, because the rolling resistance can also be reduced by up to 20% here. Numerous EU citizens give away around two billion euros in fuel every year because they do not fill their tires with air professionally. A good guideline of 0.2 to 0.3 bar more in the tires cannot hurt. If you are not sure, you can ask your trusted workshop. The combination of low-rolling resistance tires and regular checking of tire pressure is highly recommended there, because: depending on the vehicle type and mileage, up to €100 in fuel can be saved per year through the use of low-rolling resistance tires and optimal tire pressure. Sounds simple? It is: the environment and your savings account will certainly thank you.
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Photo by Sabine, meinhaushalt.at
