3 Top Properties of Fuel-Efficient Tyres
Today, it pays to be gas-conscious if you consider the rising cost of fuel. That is why most car owners turn off the A/C when possible or keep their tyres well inflated. Besides, car owners try not to let their fuel tanks run too low. While the above strategies help reduce the amount of fuel your car consumes, fuel-efficient tyres can help you even more. That said, how do you establish whether the tyres you are buying are the fuel-efficient type? Here are critical properties to look out for.
Low Rolling Resistance
One major factor that affects fuel consumption is tyre pressure. Notably, rolling resistance increases gradually as tyres deflate, making it difficult to achieve a smooth ride. Consequently, it leads to increased fuel consumption, especially on uneven roads. Car tyre manufacturers rely on technology to reduce rolling resistance even when deflation occurs. One such innovation is the use of silicone additives in tread compounds, which lowers rolling resistance significantly regardless of pressure deflation rates. Therefore, when shopping for a fuel-efficient tyre, ensure that the wheel's treads comprise silicone additives. It goes a long way in keeping a car's fuel consumption low until you fill the tyres with enough air to achieve optimal pressure.
Stiffer Side Walls
As car tyres roll on the road, friction between the rubber and the paving generates heat. Therefore, tyres with soft sidewalls are easily deformed and expose a wider surface area to the paving. Not only does it create a lot of heat, but it also increases a tyre's rolling resistance. Both factors force a car to consume a lot of fuel, especially when carrying extra weight. However, tyres with stiffer sidewalls are the exact opposite because they maintain a limited surface area with the paving. Additionally, the stiff sidewalls are not prone to deformation, which means low rolling resistance and excellent fuel efficiency. The best part is that you can make the sidewalls more rigid by filling tyres with air pressure per the manufacturer's guidelines.
Relatively Shallow Treads
Treads are crucial for traction, particularly in extreme weather or when braking. The easier it is for tyre treads to grab the asphalt, the better your gas mileage. However, it is only possible in tyres with relatively shallow treads because you do not have to press hard on the accelerator to achieve the desired speed. However, deeper tracks have a minimal grab between a tyre and the road, forcing you to overwork your accelerator and increase fuel consumption. Therefore, always scrutinise tyre tread depth, especially when buying retreaded wheels.
For more information, contact a tyre shop.