Why Are Low Rolling Resistance Tires Not Popular?
4 Answers
Currently, low rolling resistance tires are still relatively popular. Here is relevant information about low rolling resistance tires: 1. Vehicle fuel economy is becoming increasingly important: On one hand, to conserve fuel resources, and on the other hand, to promote technological progress in the automotive industry and improve the energy-saving standard system for heavy-duty commercial vehicles, China implemented the first-phase fuel consumption standard for heavy-duty commercial vehicles in 2012, the second-phase standard in 2014, and the third-phase standard in 2019. Each update to the fuel consumption standard has tightened the fuel consumption limit by more than 10% compared to the previous phase, significantly reducing vehicle fuel consumption and increasing the demand for fuel-saving performance. Moreover, there will be a fourth-phase fuel consumption standard in the future. 2. Low rolling resistance tires excel in fuel-saving performance: Tire rolling resistance, also known as rolling friction, includes static friction and elastic losses. It is closely related to road type, tire structure and materials, vehicle load, etc., and is one of the three key performance indicators of tires. The three key performance indicators of tires are wear resistance (service life), rolling resistance (rolling friction), and wet grip (traction), known as the "Magic Triangle" in the tire industry. Often, improving one or two of these performance aspects leads to a loss in the others, making it difficult to achieve all three simultaneously. In Europe, tire rolling resistance levels are classified into seven grades: A, B, C, D, E, F, and G. In China, commonly used tires include large-pattern off-road tires, regular tires, and low rolling resistance tires, catering to different usage scenarios.
I've been driving for twenty years, and the main reason low rolling resistance tires aren't popular is due to too many performance issues. When driving in the rain, the tires have poor grip, making the car prone to skidding, especially with significantly longer emergency braking distances. When overtaking or changing lanes on the highway, the body noticeably sways and feels unstable, giving no sense of security. The tires wear out shockingly fast, getting bald in just two years, and the cost of replacement outweighs the fuel savings. Comfort is also poor, with loud humming noises inside the car. Car owners prioritize safety and durability over risking it just to save a bit on fuel. While environmental contribution is a good thing, in reality, most people opt for sturdy and wear-resistant tires when weighing the trade-offs.
As a driver who values the in-car environment, I found low rolling resistance tires too noisy for comfort after trying them. There's a constant humming sound even on smooth roads, making long drives painful for the ears and distracting. On bumpy roads, the vibrations are noticeable, and the stiff ride makes passengers uncomfortable. The noise reduction technology lags behind, failing to filter road noise as effectively as quiet tires. While fuel efficiency is eco-friendly, a quiet and smooth experience is more important for daily commutes. This is why many family car owners avoid them. I suggest manufacturers improve comfort design, as the fuel-saving feature alone isn't enough to attract buyers. Additionally, their weak durability and short lifespan are major drawbacks.
As a cost-conscious car owner, low rolling resistance tires save fuel initially but aren't cost-effective long-term. Their poor wear resistance means they're worn out in less than two years, and the replacement costs outweigh the fuel savings. They're also slightly more expensive when purchased. Under normal driving conditions, the fuel-saving effect isn't significant, and in traffic jams, there's almost no difference. The economic calculation shows it's better to choose durable tires that last for years without replacement. Maintenance staff rarely recommend them due to high failure and return rates. Budget-conscious buyers should prioritize cost-effective options.
