Can Tyres Affect Fuel Consumption?

Can tyres affect fuel consumption? They sure can. Fuel efficiency is a priority for most motorists in the face of rising fuel costs. With advanced technology, tyre manufactures are designing more and more tyres that target fuel consumption. Purchasing the right tyres can save you a lot of money over time at the pump.

Fuel Consumption Factors

Rolling Resistance

Correct Wheel Alignment and Balance

Uneven Tread Wear

Smooth Driving

Excess Vehicle Load

Tyre Pressure

Age

Tyre Size and Weight

Tread Pattern

Fuel Efficient Tyres or Eco-Friendly Tyres

Tyres can have a huge impact of how much individual motorists spend on fuel. Tyres marked fuel efficient or eco-friendly have been engineered to consume less petrol with lower rolling resistance. When looking to purchase your next set of tyres this should be a non-negotiable. Unique designs and innovative tread patterns target formatted tread compounds to enhance grip while lessening drag and friction. Often, tyres are designed more streamline to lessen drag and firmer to retain their shape for as long as possible. Tyres can account for up to 20% of your fuel consumption.

Rolling Resistance

Rolling resistance speaks to the friction between the road and your tyre. A high level of rolling resistance means your vehicle is working hard to get from A to B. An increase in engine power to keep you moving forward means an increase in fuel. Hence why all motorists should consider a tyre offering low rolling resistance to ultimately use less petrol and produce fewer carbon emissions.

Tyre Pressure

Tyre pressure influences fuel economy. Under inflated tyres show in increase in fuel consumption due to rolling resistance. By increasing your vehicles drag, your vehicle is working harder to move forward, thus increasing fuel consumption.

4WD Tyres

4X4 vehicles are notorious for chewing through a full tank of petrol before you can even blink. A large contributor of this is all-terrain and mud-terrain tyres. Unlike highway-terrain tyres, off-road tyres are generally larger, heavier and prioritise performance. Depending on your off-road driving requirements you may have to compromise on fuel economy for your aggressive tread. Generally the more aggressive your tyre is, the more fuel your vehicle will consume. However, there are many 4WD tyres that offer fuel efficiency on the market.

Tyre Age and Uneven Tread

As a tyre ages, its tread is often worn out. Worn out and uneven tread means that your car needs to work even harder, requiring more engine power. There are a number of other factors that can contribute to premature or uneven tread wear including load, tyre pressure, driving style and wheel alignment.

Shop our range of fuel-efficient tyres here.