What does ‘Tyre Labelling’ guarantee? It shows schematically the classification of tyres in terms of fuel consumption, noise and wet performance. The tyre manufacturer is obliged to demonstrate the values ​​indicated on the label in tests carried out in accordance with the test method described in EU regulations. This essentially means that the performance parameters of the tyres in question are at least exactly at this level or above the positive side of the limit scale, but only when the tyres are new, i.e. at the beginning of tyre installation. It is technically expected that the stated performance values ​​will not change until the end of the first 10,000 kilometres or until wear of approximately 1.5 mm occurs.

Who knows what the actual grading of tyres will be after the second 10,000 kilometres or at 3 mm down wear stage? No one can correctly estimate what the wet noise and traction will be after most of the mini-kerf or notches are eliminated or reduced, but only when the tyre is tested it can be monitored. Or if the tyre's grooves are completely ‘V’ type, and after a period of time the tyre's traction forces change significantly, then rolling resistance and wet braking behaviour will become significantly different.

The performance level of worn tyres might be therefore quite uncertain and must be taken into account on a legal basis. The wet performance of worn tyres will be a check point for ‘wet grip class’ grading on EU Tyre label after 1st July of 2024, which is in line with the demand of tyre industry parties asking more sustainability.  Thanks to the introduction of a new EU regulation R117-04, tyres sold in EU distribution channels meet the same minimum wet braking performance requirements not only when new but also when worn down to the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm.

EU is the most sensitive and advanced market to sustainability in the world. It is driven at any time by the increasingly aspiring regulatory agenda and there is always a constant development in this respect. Requirements of consumers or the automotive industry are more demanding by a more conscious society. Tyres’ life cycle contributing to a more sustainable future proactively identifies and addresses the potential human health and environmental impacts associated with the industry. Therefore, safer and more environmentally sound mobility options are always geared towards resource conservation and fuel economy amongst the focus points of innovations.

Thanks to the introduction of a new EU regulation R117-04, tyres sold in EU distribution channels meet the same minimum wet braking performance requirements not only when new but also when worn down to the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm. They must therefore be tested both as new and as worn tyres before receiving the 'wet grade’ on the label. This means that EU drivers can now buy safer tyres that meet the legal minimum standards for wet braking performance, even when worn down to the legal minimum tread depth.

As a weak point of R117-04 regulation, it only covers wet braking of new and worn-out tyres. It does not cover ‘noise’ and ‘rolling resistance’ items given on labelling or more simply endurance performance level of especially cheap tyres in the market with a 1.6 mm tread depth assuming they will not change!

Informal wet braking tests conducted by ETRTO show that the wear rate of group ‘C1’ tyres can decrease by up to 50 percent, while the loss rate of group ‘C2’ and ‘C3’ tyres remain in 10 percent. The new regulation R117-04 therefore does not apply to group ‘C2’ and ‘C3’ tyres, as they normally have a greater tread depth and it is assumed that the level of wet braking does not change during the wear phase. However, since group ‘C1’ tyres have a smaller tread depth, it is assumed that their contact patch is more subject to negative changes, so that the wet braking performance also changes more after use. 

As a weak point of R117-04 regulation, it only covers wet braking of new and worn-out tyres. It does not cover ‘noise’ and ‘rolling resistance’ items given on labelling or more simply endurance performance level of especially cheap tyres in the market with a 1.6 mm tread depth assuming they will not change!

The new R117-04 regulation may mainly be considered as sustainability issue rather than total safety. It promotes tyre usage until defined min tread depth creating a room to consumers to trust the tyres above minimum tread depth level. However, it should still be positively considered a step forward to the worn tyres’ safety regulation. It accepts that wet braking level of worn tyres are more critical and important safety issue and should be regulated. By the way, consumers may use their tyres in longer stage, giving a contribution to a greener world.

The transparency provided by the new regulation, which came into force on 2024 July, is even more essential, as some performances deteriorate over time, especially in terms of safety. R117-04 in this term guarantees enhanced safety, better respect for the environment and the protection of motorists’ purchasing power. 

Common consumer behaviour shows that 50 percent of car tyres are demounted before reaching a residual depth of 3 mm and replaced with a new set of tyres.

Michelin has studied the safety margin of used tyres since 2018 and has stressed the importance of tyres to be used until 1.6 mm remaining tread depth. The best way was to test worn tyres because it can easily reflect the real risks a driver can face on the road. During the study, the results were surprisingly varied. It was shown that some worn tyres performed better than new tyres when braking on wet roads. This was exactly what Michelin has been saying for a long time. The performance of different tyre brands also varies considerably.

Common consumer behaviour shows that 50 percent of car tyres are demounted before reaching a residual depth of 3 mm and replaced with a new set. In global scale, this makes around 400 million tyres are prematurely scraped every year. A quarter of this amount, or almost 100 million tyres, would save at least 6 million tonnes of CO2 instead of reproducing it. The implementation of this regulation will certainly have an impact on the demand for new tyres in Europe.

R117-04 presently focus mainly on only tread depth attribute, while aspects such as ageing or rubber structural integrity degradation remain outside the scope of this amendment.

In addition, in the hope that higher performance requirements will not result in higher costs for consumers, the changes are designed to encourage consumers to continue using sustainable tyres instead. Once drivers are confident in their tyres, they will drive to a tread depth of 1.6 mm, potentially saving EUR 6 billion a year by not complying with proposals to reduce tread depth to less than 3 mm.

R117-04 presently focuses mainly on tread depth attribute, while aspects such as ageing or rubber structural integrity degradation remain outside the scope of this amendment. We also mentioned some additional weak points above. However, imposing these standards, will increase the driver’s awareness for worn tyres performance limits and let them to make more informed decisions when purchasing tyres.

On the other hand, understanding the ‘NEW AND WORN PHASE TESTS CONCEPT’ will become the standard mentality of the customer, who will be able to assess the attitude towards the initial performance of the tyres, which may change over time, but should not! The new challenge will be to weed out products that are not gripping in the wet when worn and have not met these expectations for years..!

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Birla Tyre has launched a new brand identity featuring a redesigned logo and corporate website, marking a major step in its transformation journey under new ownership. The company, now backed by a consortium led by Dalmia Bharat Refractories (DBRL) as Resolution Applicant, and strategic partner Himadri Speciality Chemical (HSCL), aims to position itself as a premium, high-performance and future-ready brand.

The company plans to roll out a multi-platform marketing campaign and focus on re-entering key markets, expanding distribution and strengthening its product portfolio.

The refreshed identity reflects Birla Tyre’s renewed focus on speed, innovation and excellence. The new logo includes a custom wordmark symbolising forward motion and a tiger motif – called ‘Tyger’ – representing power, agility and leadership. The blue and orange colour scheme signifies trust and optimism.

Anurag Choudhary, Chairman and Managing Director & CEO, Himadri Speciality Chemical, said, “This rebranding is more than merely a visual transformation; it is a reaffirmation of our dedication to purposeful development and progress.” 

Dr Chandra Narain Maheswari, Whole Time Director & CEO, Dalmia Bharat Refractories, said, “Our new logo encapsulates the essence of Birla Tyre, which is founded on four fundamental pillars: a legacy that motivates boldness, a product line that is prepared for the future, an unwavering commitment to continuous innovation and a oneness with world around us. As this new identity signals Birla Tyre’s readiness to meet the evolving needs of the automotive industry with energy, innovation, and purpose.”

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  - Kumarswamy CE June 19, 2025 06:52 AM

  That is good news…but what about public shares which were purchased before insolvency?? Will they be reallocated under new brand ?

  Reply

The 2025 Rally of Poland commenced amid an atmosphere of mourning following the tragic death of Italian motorsport driver Matteo Doretto in a racing accident.

The 81st edition of Europe's second-oldest rally competition, taking place across the challenging gravel roads of the Masurian Lakes region from June 13-15, has been overshadowed by the loss of the rising Italian talent.

"His loss is a tragedy that deeply saddens us," said Terenzio Testoni, Pirelli Rally Activity Manager. "On behalf of Pirelli, I would like to extend our most heartfelt and sincere condolences to his family and friends."

Despite the sombre mood, 63 crews took to the start line for what remains one of the European Rally Championship's most demanding events. Notable competitors include Jon Armstrong driving a Pirelli-equipped Ford Fiesta, alongside Jos Verstappen and Andrea Mabellini, both piloting Skoda Fabias fitted with Pirelli tyres.

The rally features 14 special stages covering 190.40 timed kilometres across terrain known for its technical difficulty. The Masurian Lakes route presents drivers with uneven, often sandy roads where grip proves elusive even for experienced competitors.

"It's a very difficult and high speed rally, where attention to detail is very important," commented Testoni. "With every car passage the terrain gets rougher, forming deep ruts that can challenge even the most experienced drivers."

Weather conditions are forecast to remain dry, though organisers caution that conditions can change rapidly on such challenging terrain.

The rally serves as the third round of this season's ERC Fiesta Rally3 trophy, for which Pirelli provides exclusive tyre supply. Competing crews have access to three variants from Pirelli's Scorpion gravel range: the K4A hard compound, the K6A soft compound designated as the prime choice for this event, and the K8B supersoft option.

Regulations permit each crew to utilise 16 tyres total, including those selected for qualifying sessions. Trophy category vehicles will run on Scorpion 175/70-15 specifications in both K4 hard and K6 soft compounds.

Rally Poland's reputation for difficulty stems from its unique surface characteristics, where the sandy base becomes increasingly rutted as more vehicles traverse each stage. The deteriorating conditions throughout the weekend create an additional strategic element as crews must balance speed with mechanical preservation.

The event's location in the Masurian Lakes region, known for its natural beauty, provides a stark contrast to the intense competition unfolding on its roads. The rally has maintained its position as a crucial championship round despite the technical challenges it presents to both drivers and machinery.

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UK-based tyre safety watchdog TyreSafe has welcomed the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)’s announcement highlighting Britain’s fast lane position for self-driving vehicles.

While the safety watchdog has acknowledged the potential the technology holds for enhancing road safety and reducing collisions, it maintains a caution towards the effectiveness and safety benefits of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) – and by extension, fully autonomous vehicles. This it shared are intrinsically linked to the fundamental safety and maintenance of a vehicle’s tyres.

Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said, “We are incredibly optimistic about the future of mobility and the significant strides being made in self-driving technology. Anything that has the potential to save lives and dramatically reduce serious collisions on our roads is something TyreSafe wholeheartedly supports.”

“However, it is crucial to remember that even the most sophisticated ADAS systems rely on optimal vehicle performance, and tyres are the sole point of contact between the vehicle and the road. Without sound tyre safety management – ensuring correct pressure, tread depth, and condition – the integrity and performance of these advanced systems can be severely compromised,” said Lovatt.

He highlighted the persistent issues that is seen among current vehicle owners, when it comes to proper tyre maintenance. 

“For many years, tyres have consistently been identified as the primary cause of MOT failures for vehicles up to seven years old. This underscores a widespread complacency regarding tyre safety that we must collectively address,” he added.

As per the latest statistics, over 35 percent of MOT failures were attributed to previous tyre-related advisories, which translates to 768,410 drivers ignoring warnings and subsequently failed their next MOT due to tyre issues. The trend of vehicles failing MOTs on wheel and tyre-related advisories is unfortunately increasing, indicating a growing disregard for these critical safety components.

“The promise of self-driving vehicles is immense, but their safety cannot be fully realised if the foundational elements are neglected. As we move towards a more autonomous future, the importance of tyres – their condition and correct maintenance – becomes even more paramount. TyreSafe urges all stakeholders, from manufacturers to policymakers and drivers, to recognise that tyre safety is not just an advisory; it is a non-negotiable prerequisite for safe, efficient, and technologically advanced motoring,” concluded Lovatt.

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Vaculug has announced the appointment of Darren C. as the company’s Regional Operations Manager for the West, overseeing key areas including Manchester, Birmingham and Wales. Darren brings with him extensive experience, knowledge and skillset and will be a valuable asset to the team, said the company.

Marcus Kirkness, Fleet Operations Manager at Vaculug, said, “These are truly exciting times at Vaculug. We’re incredibly pleased to have Darren join our team. His knowledge of the tyre industry, combined with his experience in managing customer fleets and delivering top-tier customer service, will be instrumental as we continue to expand our customer base. Darren’s expertise ensures we remain agile in addressing challenges and fulfilling our commitments swiftly and effectively."

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