Will the "Euro-7" standard make tires worse?

The "Euro-7" standard, which for the first time sets requirements for particulate emissions from tire wear, is still causing debate in the industry (experts predict a price increase, and Michelin supports the introduction of new rules, but notes that a reliable testing methodology is needed), and this time the possible consequences have worried Norway.

According to Nettavisen, tire wear can be reduced by increasing the stiffness of the rubber compounds. At the same time, it is generally believed that the "stiffer" the tires, the higher the wear resistance and fuel efficiency, but the lower the grip and comfort, and the question is whether manufacturers can combine optimal safety with the new regulations.

The concern is shared by the Norwegian Automobile Federation (NAF), which notes that "traditionally, the formula was: the less wear, the higher the stiffness of the tire rubber, and one way to reduce microplastic emissions may be to release tires with new, stiffer rubber compounds".

"Tire development is always about finding compromise solutions, and if you 'solve a problem' in one area, you have to compromise in another," said Jan Harry Svendsen, a journalist collaborating with the NAF.

According to him, when developing tires for electric vehicles, manufacturers have already had to make similar decisions, and "reducing rolling resistance in most cases led to a decrease in grip, especially on wet roads". "Now we are a little concerned that the new requirements will again lead to a decrease in the grip of tires, again on wet pavement," he noted.

In Continental, they stated that there is no direct correlation between increasing tire stiffness and reducing wear. "We are constantly developing new rubber compounds, as well as innovative tread patterns and manufacturing processes that allow us to reduce tire wear without compromising grip and safety," said Per Linder, product manager at Continental's North European division.

Linder acknowledges that "the fact that tires need to become 'stiffer' is indeed a concern, as it's not just about reducing particulate emissions". "Here, the right combination of materials, tire design, and tread pattern, as well as ensuring the optimal balance of tire characteristics in terms of both wear and, of course, comfort and safety, are important," emphasized the Continental representative.

In Nokian, they claim that the concern is exaggerated. "Tire wear resistance can be increased without significantly deteriorating other characteristics," the company says. "This possibility exists thanks to new developments in the field of raw material processing, including rubber. In the countries of Northern and Central Europe, automotive magazines often conduct tests, evaluating all tire parameters. Therefore, most likely, all premium tire manufacturers are working to ensure that their products have a balance of characteristics without compromising any important qualities".