How much higher is the fuel consumption of AT tires compared to regular tires?
3 Answers
AT tires increase fuel consumption by 5% to 10% per 100 kilometers compared to regular tires. AT tires have higher rolling resistance, and these tires also produce more noise. Below is an introduction to related tire information: Tire lifespan: Tires are rubber products, and rubber products will age over time with prolonged use. Therefore, tires need to be replaced regularly. Under normal circumstances, tires installed on a vehicle can last for four years. When purchasing new tires, it is essential to check the production date carefully. Normally, the shelf life of unused tires is three years. If a tire has been in storage for more than three years, it should not be purchased. Tire usage: After installing new tires, it is crucial to perform a dynamic balance test on each wheel. Otherwise, abnormal vibrations may occur during high-speed driving. If abnormal vibrations occur in the wheels, it can affect the vehicle's handling and high-speed driving stability. During regular vehicle use, it is also important to frequently check the tire pressure.
After switching to AT tires, fuel consumption typically increases by about 10% to 15% compared to regular highway tires. I've experienced this myself driving an SUV—previously, it consumed 10 liters per 100 kilometers, but now it's around 11 to 12 liters. The reason is that AT tires have a rougher and heavier tread, which increases rolling resistance, making the vehicle work harder, almost like climbing a hill. Off-roading is much more enjoyable with them, as they provide better traction on mountain roads and enhance safety. However, for city commuting, they’re significantly more expensive. Considering rising fuel costs, I recommend opting for lightweight AT tires or maintaining proper tire pressure to mitigate the impact. Over time, this could mean spending an extra 100 to 200 yuan per month on fuel. If you don’t have much off-road demand, regular tires are far more economical.
Off-roading with AT tires is a lot of fun, and their tread design is excellent for mud and gravel. However, in terms of fuel consumption, based on reviews and driving a friend's car, they average 12% to 18% higher than regular tires. Regular tires are smoother and more fuel-efficient, while AT tires are heavier and stiffer, consuming noticeably more fuel, especially on highways. The driving feel is heavier, and the noise is a bit louder, but the improved road handling is worth it. Choosing a low-rolling-resistance brand can help reduce the gap. It's recommended to check tire pressure weekly to avoid underinflation, which increases fuel consumption. For off-roading, the extra fuel cost is bearable, but they're not recommended for city driving.
