When shopping for car tires, most people focus on price, durability, and grip. However, there’s another crucial factor that can impact fuel efficiency, tire lifespan, and even your wallet—rolling resistance.
What Is Rolling Resistance?
Rolling resistance is the force that opposes a tire’s movement as it rolls on a surface. Essentially, it’s the amount of energy your vehicle needs to keep the tires moving forward. Every time a tire rotates, it deforms slightly due to the weight of the car. This deformation causes energy loss in the form of heat, leading to rolling resistance.
Why Does Rolling Resistance Matter?
Rolling resistance directly affects your vehicle’s fuel consumption, driving performance, and environmental impact. Here’s how:
- Fuel Efficiency: Lower rolling resistance means your engine doesn’t have to work as hard to move the vehicle, leading to better fuel economy. In fact, tires with low rolling resistance can improve fuel efficiency by up to 5%.
- CO₂ Emissions: Since rolling resistance influences fuel consumption, it also affects carbon dioxide emissions. Reducing rolling resistance helps decrease a vehicle’s carbon footprint, making it an eco-friendlier choice.
- Tire Wear and Durability: While reducing rolling resistance is beneficial, too little resistance may lead to reduced traction and faster tread wear. High-quality tires strike a balance between low rolling resistance and good grip to ensure both efficiency and safety.
- Electric Vehicle Performance: For EVs, rolling resistance is even more critical. Since EVs rely solely on battery power, minimizing resistance can help extend driving range per charge.
How to Choose Low Rolling Resistance Tires
If you want to improve fuel efficiency and reduce operating costs, look for tires labeled as “low rolling resistance” or “eco-friendly.” These tires are designed with special rubber compounds and tread patterns that reduce energy loss without compromising safety.
Conclusion
Rolling resistance is a key factor in tire performance that affects fuel economy, emissions, and overall driving costs. Investing in high-quality, low rolling resistance tires can save money on fuel while promoting a greener driving experience. At ASKO, we offer a wide range of tires optimized for efficiency and durability—visit our stores to find the perfect set for your car!