Eco Tyres

Save Fuel with Eco Tyres

Like many countries throughout the world, the European Union is beginning to recognize the growing strain on our environment by car emissions. The ruling body of the EU, in an attempt to address this problem, has conducted several studies, meetings and research on the problem. They have several solutions in the mix and are committed to reducing carbon based emissions throughout the region. Over the next several years, several proposals will be debated and hopefully passed. In the long run, the EU should see a reduction in car emissions from their member nations.

What are ECO Tyres?

In an attempt to improve road safety and reduce the carbon footprint of their countries, the European Union has proposed a law to make Low Rolling Resistance Tyres mandatory by 2012. These ecology friendly, ECO, tires will improve the carbon emissions of cars by reducing the amount of fuel cars need. The ability to rely on less fuel comes from the way the tyres are designed. The ECO Tyres are composed of low-noise rubber and will be harder than other, less ecologically friendly tyres. This will lead to a reduction of road resistance, meaning less fuel will be needed.  There is a downside to these tyres. Their harder nature means less breaking ability, especially on wet surfaces. Some studies suggest that this could be a reduction of breaking power of nearly 10%. This solution is not perfect, but it would be a step in the correct direction.

What is Eco-tyres are on the Market Right Now?

The EU is not wrong to head in this direction. Several of the major car countries with green cars on the market have already invested research time and money into ECO Tyres. These tyres are currently available on several higher end green cars as well as concept cars that may be released in the future. On a positive note, because the car and tyre industry has a head start, the quality and drivability of ECO Tyres may be up to speck by the time the EU issues a ruling.

Tyre Maintenance for Improved Emissions

The European Union is also suggestion a proposition for tyre conditions. Studies show that properly inflated tyres perform better, have improved fuel economy and emit fewer emissions. Because of this, the EU is considering a measure that would require tyre pressure be monitored on all new tyres. The science behind this concept is sound; improperly inflated tyres lead to increased fuel waste, greater emissions and have an impact on the carbon footprint of the driver. Some researchers believe that tyre pressure should be increased when an car is carrying an especially heavy load.  Additional passengers or cargo may make increasing tyre pressure important. Be sure to consult a qualified mechanic about proper inflation of tyres as over inflated tyres is just as bad as under inflated one. Like the previous solution, this one is not perfect either. Older cars, with tyres that are in poor condition may need to be fitted with new tyres. This will be not only an expensive proposition; it will also increase the amount of waste rubber throughout the European Union.

What You Can Do With Your Tyres Right Now

Until the European issues a ruling on the topic, there are things that all members can do. By ensuring that the tyres on their vehicles are in excellent working condition, it is possible to increase the fuel economy of a car. To keep tyres in good shape, there are several important things that need to be done. First, check the tread of all tyres regularly. Second, make checking tyre pressure a part of your weekly schedule. Finally, have your tires rotated, balanced and aligned on a regular balance. These steps will help every driver reduce their carbon footprint and are excellent stop gap measure in the interim.

Another, more expensive measure is investing in a set of ECO Tyres already on the market or going the extra green mile and buying an ecologically friendly car. These are both expensive options, but are a guaranteed way to reduce emissions. Remember:  Any tire that is replaced by either an ECO tyre or a standard one needs to be disposed of properly. Look for a garage that offers ecologically friendly tyre disposal to prevent further contributing to the growing pollution problem.

In the next few years, there should be rulings from the European Union regarding ECO Tyres and other tyre measures. These will be an excellent step towards reducing the amount of carbon pollution from cars located in member states.  They look to be a leader in the drive toward ecologically friendly driving. As their position on the issue becomes clearer, it will be interesting to see just what steps they take to address this growing problem. While we wait for the EU to issue these rulings it is possible to take steps right now that will help clear up the problem. The state of the ecological world is everyone’s responsibility. All drivers should take proper steps to ensure their tyres are as ecologically friendly as possible.