Rolling Resistance of Truck Tires
Rolling resistance occurs when a truck tire deforms while driving, causing it to lose energy to the road surface. The greater the rolling resistance of the tires, the more fuel the truck consumes.
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What causes rolling resistance in truck tires?
Rolling resistance is primarily caused by energy loss within the tire itself. When a tire rolls under load, it continuously deforms at the contact patch with the road surface. The rubber does not fully spring back to its original shape, causing energy to be lost in the form of heat. This process is also known as hysteresis loss.
The main causes of rolling resistance are:
1. Deformation of the rubber
With every revolution, the tire deforms at the contact patch. The heavier the load, the greater the deformation, and the higher the rolling resistance.
2. Rubber compound
Softer rubber compounds often provide more grip but also cause more internal friction. Fuel-efficient tires use specially developed compounds with low internal resistance.
3. Tire pressure
Tire pressure that is too low increases the contact area with the road surface and increases tire deformation. This leads to a significant increase in rolling resistance.
4. Construction and Tread Design
Deep or aggressive tread patterns and stiffer carcass constructions result in more moving mass and deformation. Tires for long-haul transport are therefore designed with an optimized tread pattern for minimal rolling resistance.
5. Load Weight and Axle Load
The higher the load per axle, the more the tire deforms. Incorrect distribution of the load weight can therefore lead to additional rolling resistance and uneven wear.
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Rolling Resistance and Tire Labels
The rolling resistance of truck tires is indicated by the European tire label. This label classifies tires from A (very low rolling resistance) to E (high rolling resistance). Tires with an A rating are specifically designed to minimize energy loss and are primarily used in long-haul transport, where fuel efficiency plays a decisive role.
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What is the effect of rolling resistance on fuel consumption?
Rolling resistance accounts for a significant portion of a truck’s total energy consumption. When rolling resistance is lower, the engine needs to supply less energy to keep the truck moving. Conversely, higher rolling resistance results in greater energy loss and, therefore, higher fuel consumption.
The difference between tires with different efficiency classes can amount to several liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. With high annual mileage, this translates into a significant cost difference per vehicle. That is precisely why it pays to look beyond just the purchase price when choosing truck tires.
Efficient driving starts with the tire
Rolling resistance over the tire’s lifespan
Rolling resistance changes as the tire is used and thus plays a decisive role in your truck’s daily operating costs. Factors such as tire pressure, wear, and driving style collectively determine how smoothly a tire rolls over the road surface.
New tires often have slightly higher rolling resistance initially, which decreases after the break-in period. Through regular maintenance and timely inspections, this rolling resistance can be kept consistently low. The result is immediately noticeable in lower fuel consumption and a longer tire lifespan.
How We Work Successfully
01 We prioritize personal contact
It’s no coincidence that we call ourselves “tire creators.” We visit regularly to catch up with you or one of your employees.
02 We provide sound advice
Figuring out for yourself which tires are the best choice for which truck? Not with us. We advise you personally, drawing on our years of experience.
03 We offer competitive prices
We guarantee you the best price-per-kilometer ratio. We don’t go for the cheapest tire, but for the best tire tailored to the environment.
Advice that goes beyond just the tire
By understanding rolling resistance and the factors that influence it, transportation companies can make better decisions regarding tire selection and maintenance. That’s why, when selecting truck tires, we look beyond just brand or price. Our tire specialists advise you on the correct tire size, load index, and tread depth.
We combine this technical expertise with a personalized approach. We’re involved from start to finish, build long-term relationships with every customer, and are happy to visit you regularly to answer questions and actively contribute ideas. Thanks to this comprehensive advice, you’re guaranteed to purchase the right truck tires for your fleet.
Custom advice
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