New requirements for tires in the EU

Michelin supported the introduction of new tire traction requirements in the worn state on wet pavement in the European Union in accordance with Directive R117-04, which came into force on July 1, 2024, and, as the company says, will help increase road safety, reduce environmental damage, and benefit European motorists.

"For our company, it is crucial that consumers are aware of the significance of worn tire performance characteristics, and transparency in this matter is all the more important since some parameters deteriorate over time, especially in terms of safety," says Michelin. "The new European regulations include mandatory testing to strict standards, which will increase road safety and at the same time allow car owners to use reliable tires until they reach the minimum allowed tread depth of 1.6 mm."

According to European regulations, tests on a wet surface are conducted at a speed of 80-20 km/h with a 1-millimeter water layer depth, taking into account such parameters as the coefficient of friction and ambient temperature. This sets the level of safety that tires can provide.

Michelin emphasizes that they strive to develop tires that work effectively "from the first to the last mile", and this approach is related to the need to increase safety. "For example, during a stop on a wet road, the braking distance of worn Michelin tires, designed to maintain performance throughout their lifespan, is on average 3.4 meters shorter than that of competitors' tires. This distance is roughly equal to the length of a car, and such a difference would be crucial in an emergency situation," the company says. "Every year, Michelin invests almost €1.2 billion in research and development and innovation, which allows 6,000 scientists to create, for example, new tire designs and tread patterns, as well as develop new composite materials with unique properties. Our approach ensures optimal safety, including on wet roads, and regardless of whether new or worn tires are used."

According to Michelin, in the world, 50% of tires are replaced before the remaining tread depth reaches 3 mm, and the new regulations may reduce the need for new tires in Europe by 128 million units per year, resulting in a reduction of CO2 emissions by 6.6 million tons. Globally, 400 million tires are replaced prematurely every year, and using their full potential could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 35 million tons, equivalent to the emissions of New York City over six months. Additionally, due to the longer service life of tires, European drivers could save approximately €7 billion annually, Michelin adds.