Decoding the EU’s New Tyre Labelling Regulation What It Means for Global Sellers

Hi Team & Connections

For everyone in the automotive and motorcycle parts trade, especially those dealing with tyres, the EU’s new Tyre Labelling Regulation (EU 2020/740) is a game-changer that demands our full attention. It’s not just an update; it’s a significant shift towards sustainability and transparency that reshapes market access and competitive dynamics.

Here’s a structured breakdown of what you need to know:

1.  What’s New & Why It Matters:

Expanded Scope: It now covers all new tyres sold in the EU, including heavy-duty vehicle tyres (C3), retreaded tyres, and critically for our industry, motorcycle tyres (C1 & C2). Van and SUV tyres are also included.

New Parameters: The iconic label has been redesigned. Alongside the familiar Rolling Resistance (Fuel Efficiency), Wet Grip (Safety), and External Rolling Noise (Noise Pollution) ratings, a major new addition is information on Snow Grip and Ice Grip performance. This provides a more holistic view of a tyre’s capability.

Stricter Grading: The benchmarks for achieving an ‘A’ rating have been tightened. Many tyres that previously scored well may now find themselves in a lower class, pushing manufacturers towards genuine innovation.

QR Code: Each label must now include a QR code. Scanning it takes consumers to the product’s detailed information in the EU’s EPREL (European Product Database for Energy Labelling) database, enhancing transparency but also adding a compliance step.

2. Beyond the Label: Key Compliance Obligations:

EPREL Registration: This is arguably the most critical step. Before placing any tyres on the EU market, suppliers MUST register them in the EPREL database. Failure to do so is a direct violation.

Label Presentation: The label must be clearly displayed on the tyre tread at the point of sale (physical and online), in all technical promotional materials, and in the product listing on e-commerce sites.

Full Documentation: Technical documentation supporting the claimed ratings must be retained for a period of five years and be available for inspection by national authorities.

3. Strategic Implications for Us (The Opportunity):
This regulation isn’t just a hurdle; it’s a powerful tool for strategic positioning:

Product Differentiation: High ratings (especially ‘A’ in Wet Grip) are a tremendous marketing advantage. They are a visible, trusted seal of quality, safety, and efficiency for end-consumers.

Pricing Power: Premium performance allows for premium pricing. The label provides a clear, justified reason for a higher price point based on tangible benefits.

Future-Proofing: This trend towards stricter environmental and safety standards is global. Aligning our products and processes now prepares us for similar regulations in other key markets like the UK, Turkey, and potentially North America.

Trust & Transparency: The QR code and EPREL database build credibility. It shows we have nothing to hide and are committed to full compliance, which strengthens relationships with distributors and end-users.

4. Our Action Plan:
For our company and partners, this means:

Verify Compliance: Ensure all our tyres bound for the EU/UK are tested by accredited labs and have obtained their official ratings and EPREL registration.

Update Marketing Assets: Immediately integrate the new label visuals and ratings into all our product listings, brochures, packaging, and website content.

Educate Sales Teams & Distributors: Our partners need to understand the label’s value to effectively sell the benefits to retailers and consumers.

Innovate: Work closely with our manufacturing partners to continuously improve product designs to aim for the highest ratings possible.

The EU is a high-value market, and with these changes, compliance is no longer optional—it’s the price of entry. This is a chance to lead with quality and innovation.

What are your thoughts on the impact of these new rules? How is your organization adapting?