Tires

Tires are important components on vehicles that form the direct point of contact between the vehicle and the road. They are designed to provide grip, carry loads, absorb shocks and support the movement of the vehicle. Choosing the right tire can affect fuel efficiency, handling and safety on the road. Choose the right tire for your electric car based on our speed index, load index and correspondence tables.

 

 

Speed ​​index

When it comes to tires, it's not just the size and pattern that count.

The speed index plays a critical role in ensuring safety while driving. Every driver should be aware of its importance.

ᅠSpeed ​​Index Basics

The speed index is an indicator that clearly shows the tire's maximum speed under safe conditions.

On each tire's sidewall you will find a combination of numbers and letters, the last letter of which represents the tire's speed index. This letter, which varies between J and Y for most passenger cars, informs you of the tire's construction, load capacity and, most importantly, its speed limit.

Speed ​​index Meaning of the table

Each letter in the speed index corresponds to a certain speed in km/h. For example, the letter 'W' represents a maximum speed of 270 km/h. This means that the tire is tested and safe to use up to this speed under the right conditions.

Summer tires versus Winter tires

While both summer tires and winter tires have their specific speed indices, there are some clear differences between them:

  • Summer tires: These tires tend to have a higher speed index, often due to their construction, pattern and compound. Summer roads also allow higher speeds, which is reflected in the design of the tires. A typical speed index for summer tires should be at least 180 km/h.

  • Winter tires: They are adapted for colder climates and therefore have a generally lower speed index. With their coarser pattern and softer rubber, they are optimized for lower speeds on winter surfaces. A typical winter tire should have an index of at least 160 km/h.

Advice for Safe Tire Use

It can be tempting to go for a cheaper tire with a lower speed index, but it's important not to compromise on safety.

Your choice of tires should always match or exceed the vehicle's recommended speed rating. In addition, although it may be permissible to fit winter tires with a speed class lower than the summer tires, you should always follow the car's recommendations for best results and safety.

Maximum km/h

  • J - 100 km/h
  • L - 120 km/h
  • M - 130 km/h
  • N - 140 km/h
  • P - 150 km/h
  • Q - 160 km/h
  • R - 170 km/h
  • S - 180 km/h
  • T - 190 km/h
  • U - 200 km/h
  • H - 210 km/h
  • W - 240 km/h
  • W - 270 km/h
  • Y - 300 km/h

 

Load index

Understanding the Tire Load Index

The tire load index, often called load index or load rating, is a numerical code linked to a tire's maximum load capacity at the speed indicated by its speed designation. In other words, it indicates how much weight a tire can safely carry when properly inflated.

What do the numbers mean?

The load index is usually two or three numbers found on the sidewall of the tire. For example, if the load index is 91, it means that the tire can carry a maximum weight of 615 kg. This number should not be confused with the air pressure in the tire, but rather it is an indication of the strength of the tire and its ability to carry a load.

The importance of the right load index

It is crucial to choose the right tire with the correct load index for your vehicle. Using tires with the wrong load index can lead to tire failure and potentially dangerous situations, especially at high speeds or under heavy loads.

To ensure you have the correct load index for your vehicle, always consult the vehicle manual or a tire expert. Following the recommendations not only ensures your safety, but also your vehicle's performance and the life of your tires.

Choose the right tire for your rims

When it comes to choosing tires for your car, it's not just the tire's quality and tread depth

matters. Rim size and type are also critical factors that you need to consider.

Matching the correct tire size to the intended rim ensures optimal performance, driving comfort and safety.

Why is the Matching Important?

A tire that does not properly match the rim can lead to serious safety issues. If the tire is too big for the rim

it can lead to insufficient contact with the road, which reduces grip and increases the risk of skidding. If, however, the tire is too

small, it can cause overheating due to insufficient air circulation, which reduces the life of the tire and can lead to sudden tire explosion.

The Correspondence Table: Your Guide to the Right Match

To make it easier for car owners, there are correspondence tables that clarify which tire dimensions fit which rim sizes. This table

takes into account the width, height and diameter of the tire, and matches these measurements with the correct rim size. For example, if you have a

rim with a diameter of 17 inches, the table may show that tires with dimensions 225/45 R17 would be suitable.