Changes in European Winter Tire Regulations

To support fleet operators in complying with the latest regulatory requirements, Continental – technology company and manufacturer of premium tires – is once again releasing an overview of the European regulations regarding winter equipment for trucks and buses.

With the winter season 2019/2020 Alpine symbol-marked tires are becoming more relevant in several countries. In line with regulatory changes, Continental finalizes the adaption of its portfolio: As of now, all truck and bus tires for the steer and drive axle in inch sizes 17.5, 19.5 and 22.5 are available as Alpine symbol-certified variants.

M+S, Alpine symbol, snowflake symbol – what makes a winter tire?

For driving safely with optimal traction even on damp or icy roads, Continental recommends fitting trucks and buses with winter tires on steer and drive axles for the cold winter season. Identified by the snowflake symbol on the tire wall, the dedicated winter tire portfolio by Continental easily outperforms M+S tires and also significantly exceeds the requirements of the Alpine symbol certification. For winter tires to be labeled with the Alpine symbol, they have to pass a standard practical test defined in UN regulation 117 and exhibit suitability for winter use on snowy roads in a braking and traction comparison test. Tires marked with M+S (Mud + Snow) provide a tread pattern or structure that is designed to deliver performance that exceeds that of a standard tire in snowy conditions. The M+S label is not subject to a defined test procedure.

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