What does ZR mean on car tires?
2 Answers
ZR on car tires is a speed rating symbol, indicating the maximum speed at which the tire can carry a specified load under defined conditions. The letter Z represents high-speed tires capable of operating at speeds exceeding 240 km/h, while R stands for radial tires. Car tires are one of the essential components of a vehicle, directly contacting the road surface and working together with the suspension system to absorb shocks during driving, ensuring good ride comfort and smooth operation. They also provide excellent traction between the wheels and the road, enhance the vehicle's traction, braking, and off-road capabilities, and bear the weight of the car.
Recently when I changed tires, I specifically researched the ZR marking. Actually, it's a combined code representing speed rating and construction type - Z indicates an extreme speed capability exceeding 240 km/h, while R refers to the radial tire construction. This type of tire is commonly used on sports cars or high-performance vehicles, featuring strong sidewall support and exceptional cornering grip. However, ZR tires are relatively delicate - they wear faster during daily driving and cost about 30% more than standard R-rated tires. I remember helping a friend choose tires last time; his Porsche came factory-equipped with 265/35ZR20 specifications. One important reminder: regular family cars don't necessarily need ZR tires unless you frequently drive on highways or enjoy aggressive driving.
