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Improving fuel efficiency can benefit both your wallet and the environment. Hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) already do a great job of minimising your emissions output and fuel consumption.
However, you can further improve your fuel economy by selecting the right tyre type and brand.
The amount of fuel your car consumes mainly depends on how far it travels. However, there are secondary factors, such as the vehicle’s weight, size and overall movement — all of which are influenced by your tyre’s type and rolling resistance.
Your car needs energy to move from a standstill and accelerate. While fuel can provide that force, the composition of your tyres can affect how your vehicle rolls. Even with a larger and heavier car, the ideal rolling resistance should use less fuel.
Auto industry developments have spawned various fuel-saving tyre technologies. Here are the tyres that contribute the most to your car’s fuel efficiency.
Low-rolling-resistance (LRR) tyres are among the most popular variations designed to minimise energy loss. It uses specialised rubber compounds to reduce rolling resistance between your vehicle and the road, thereby minimising fuel consumption.
LRR tyres are widely adopted for different vehicle types. A 2022 study found that they can save fuel between 6.89% and 8.37% for certain tractor-trailers. It can be incredibly beneficial for already fuel-saving vehicles like EVs and hybrids.
High bio-based tyres are leaving rubber altogether and opting for more natural components. Bio-based chemicals, such as those derived from used cooking oil, can have rubber-like properties similar to those of conventional tyres, especially when combined with silica.
To keep it eco-friendly and reduce dependence on petrochemical resources, the silica in the synthetic rubber is also not derived from petroleum. The result is a tyre with good skid and wear resistance, improving fuel efficiency.
Radial tyres are also sustainable while enabling vehicles to carry heavy loads. They have features similar to LRR tyres, allowing them to dissipate heat more efficiently, thereby improving fuel economy and providing a smoother ride.
Radial tyres are exceptional at holding their shape, even when parked for an extended period. Their structural integrity can be attributed to the inner steel belts running at a 90-degree angle from the tyre tread.
Bias ply tyres are another form of speciality tyres that can also improve stability and durability. Unlike radial tyres, which have steel belts that run perpendicular to the direction of travel, they use fabric cords. These plies are laid at a 30 to 45-degree angle in a criss-cross pattern, resulting in a stiffer sidewall. This composition may make it slightly less fuel-efficient compared to radial tyres.
Finding sustainable tyres for your EV and hybrid may seem challenging at first. However, you simply need to pay attention to certain aspects before getting them installed on your vehicle.
Tyre labelling can offer a wide range of information to help you gauge its potential impact on your fuel efficiency. For instance, rolling resistance is categorised into classes A to E, with class A being optimal. The further into the alphabet you go, the less range your vehicle will have at the same energy level.
You can also check if manufacturers have added information about utilising renewable or recycled materials like bio-based oils. Just remember to verify the claims to avoid any greenwashing schemes.
The compounds and composition of the tyre primarily influence rolling resistance. However, you can also check out the tyre tread patterns. Those with patterns and grooves are more likely to require additional energy to move. Smoother and balanced treads can be much more fuel-efficient.
Underinflated tyres are discouraged since they require much more force to move, but overinflated tyres can also cause issues. It’s best to aim for properly inflated tyres at the specified pounds per square inch. It can create 10% energy savings in the long run while reducing car bounce.
It’s critical to choose tyres that match your actual vehicle. It ensures that you have the right width, diameter, speed and load ratings that won’t slow down its rolling movement. Plus, you get insight into its efficiency and noise ratings. The sidewall markings on the tyre usually indicate which car manufacturer it was specifically designed for.
Some brands are getting more creative in designing tyres focused on sustainability. Here are some to keep an eye on for fuel efficiency.
Bridgestone has been developing an airless tyre that uses a recyclable thermoplastic resin. The idea is to help skip the need for proper inflation and minimise risks with improper air pressure by creating a tyre composition that’s ready for mobility from the get-go.
Pirelli launched the first standard-production tyre that uses more than 70% bio-based and recycled materials. Utilising materials like rice husk-derived silica and recycled steel can create durable and sustainable tyres that can support even Range Rovers.
In 2025, Continental released the EcoContact 7, a summer tyre that utilises high-tech silica for lower rolling resistance. The even distribution of the components, combined with the asymmetric tread pattern, can reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions. Both the EcoContact 7 and 7 S models carry the EU “A” label.
The Michelin Primacy tyre is made with 42% sustainable content, including natural rubber and recycled components. It uses sustainable manufacturing processes to optimise the rolling resistance, thereby improving fuel efficiency. Drivers can also expect a long-lasting tread life and smooth performance.
Certain tyres can contribute more to your car’s fuel efficiency than you’d think. There are even sustainable options that create a smoother and more stable ride in the long run. Aim to make the right choice for your EV or hybrid vehicle.
