More and more car owners are concerned about their fuel consumption. Some are worried about the environmental effects of driving, while others think about fuel costs. Either way, choosing the right tires with a low rolling resistance helps to make driving more economical and environmentally friendly. Here’s how to identify low rolling resistance tires, and how they help you save fuel.
Tire rolling resistance and fuel economy
Low-rolling resistance tires are also fuel-efficient tires. It takes great force not only to get your vehicle moving, but then also to keep it going. Your tires are the only point of contact with the road surface, so they play an enormous role in how much energy is required to move the vehicle. The more resistance there is for the wheels to roll, the more fuel is needed. Here’s how low rolling resistance tires help you save fuel:
Tread design
Nokian Tyres has over time successfully reduced the rolling resistance of our tires with specialized tread designs. Contrary to what one may believe, aggressive tread designs do not always have a negative impact on rolling resisitance - at least, not at Nokian Tyres. The Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta R5 winter tire has the lowest rolling resistance in our portfolio, with the highest traction and an aggressive pattern. Finding the balance between economical driving and road safety is something that tire manufacturers must consider.
Smaller contact area
The tire’s contact area with the ground, or its footprint, also influences rolling resistance. Narrow tires have a smaller footprint and, therefore, have lower rolling resistance. Again, tire manufacturers must find the sweet spot without going too narrow with their tire design.
Lighter tire weight
Reducing the contact area is also one way to reduce the weight of a low-resistance tire. Lighter tires require less energy to roll, improving their fuel efficiency.
Stiff sidewalls
By stiffening the tire’s sidewall, it is possible to prevent it from deforming under the vehicle’s mass. Preventing tire deformation also leads to lower rolling resistance and better fuel economy. Nokian Tyres’ Aramid Technology reinforces many of our tires’ sidewalls. Through intensive research and development, and tire testing, Nokian Tyres has struck a balance with comfort and handling properties while designing tire sidewalls.
Rubber compound
The rubber compound used to manufacture the tire influences many of its qualities, rolling resistance being only one of them. Different rubber compounds are also used in winter tires to prevent them from hardening in the cold and provide a better grip.
Better fuel economy with premium tires
The main benefits of a lower rolling resistance include lower fuel costs and reduced environmental impact of driving. Improved fuel efficiency means you get more miles with the same amount of fuel. Visit your local Nokian Tyres dealer and ask more about fuel-efficient tires with low rolling resistance.
