What is the meaning of the speed rating letters on tires?
2 Answers
Vehicle tire speed rating refers to the maximum speed at which a tire can carry a specified load under defined conditions. Below is a detailed introduction to the specifications of car tires: 1. Specification model representation: Tires are crucial components of a vehicle, and they come in various specification models, each suitable for different vehicle types. The specification model is usually marked on the sidewall of the tire as a series of alphanumeric characters, representing the tire's tread width, aspect ratio, type, rim size, load index, and speed rating. 2. Speed rating: Based on the maximum speed they can sustain, tire speed ratings are categorized into different grades from A to Z, with grade A further divided into eight subcategories (A1-A8). The further the letter representing the tire's speed rating is in the alphabet, the better the tire's performance.
In my daily driving, I often remind myself to pay attention to the speed rating letters on tires, as these letters indicate the maximum speed the tires can safely withstand. For example, the letter H stands for 210 km/h, V for 240, and W for 270. This is no trivial matter—exceeding this speed limit can cause the tires to overheat, drastically increasing the risk of a blowout, much like a close call I had in my younger days due to negligence. When driving safely, I always check the combination of letters and numbers marked on the tire sidewalls to ensure they match the vehicle's performance—H-rated tires might suffice for a regular sedan, but for high-speed driving or sports cars, W or higher is recommended. Additionally, during routine maintenance, don’t forget to check tire pressure, as improper pressure can accelerate wear. In short, speed ratings are a fundamental line of defense for you and your companions on the road.
