We all want to make the most of our fuel, and having a well-maintained car with eco tyres can go some way to improve fuel economy. Tyre technology has progressed, and you can now find tyres with long-lasting grip and reduced rolling resistance, so you can save money on tyres and fuel – you really can have your cake and eat it.
Of course, there are other factors: having incorrectly inflated tyres will significantly affect fuel economy, as an underinflated tyre will increase rolling resistance. If you want to go one step further in getting the most out of your fuel check out our guide to improving fuel economy.
Best eco tyres at a glance
The best summer tyres tested | The best all-season tyres tested | The best winter tyres tested
In addition to saving you money, eco tyres are great for the environment as they allow you to burn less fuel and some eco tyres are even designed to last longer than regular tyres. We’ve rounded up the best eco-angled options from the tyre world below in alphabetical order.
Bridgestone aims to increase the portion of renewable and recyclable material used to 40% by 2030 and 100% by 2050.
| Fuel efficiency | A-D |
| Wet grip | A-C |
| Sizes available | 14-17 inches |
Continental aims to achieve full carbon neutrality, a completely circular life of its products, and a 100% responsible supply chain by 2050. It has been awarded by the Carbon Disclosure Project on more than one occasion for its efforts towards improving its supply chain.
| Fuel efficiency | A-C |
| Wet grip | A-B |
| Sizes available | 13-22 inches |
Goodyear (owner of Dunlop) aims to not use any petroleum-based oils by 2040 and established a zero waste to landfill expectation in 2006.
| Fuel efficiency | A-C |
| Wet grip | A-C |
| Sizes available | 14-17 inches |
Goodyear aims to not use any petroleum-based oils by 2040 and established a zero waste to landfill expectation in 2006.
| Fuel efficiency | A-C |
| Wet grip | A-B |
| Sizes available | 15-20 inches |
By 2030, Michelin has committed to incorporating 40% sustainable materials, halving its industrial sites’ CO2 emissions. It has been stated that both will increase to 100% by 2050.
| Fuel efficiency | A-C |
| Wet grip | A-B |
| Sizes available | 14-16 inches |
Pirelli aims for its manufacturing to be carbon neutral by 2030, with the use of fossil-based materials falling to under 30% by the same date, and the use of renewable materials increasing to more than 60%.
| Fuel efficiency | A-C |
| Wet grip | A-B |
| Sizes available | 16-19 inches |
FAQs about eco tyres
What are eco tyres?
The design and structure of a tyre affect its rolling resistance. A tyre that aims to reduce rolling resistance will incorporate silica into the compound of the tyre, which reduces friction and heat and therefore rolling resistance. Silica compounds also make a tyre lighter and stronger, thus aiding economy and durability.
A tyre with a clever silica compound can then have a tread pattern that helps balance the gains in efficiency with grip. There is no specific threshold for eco tyres, but a tyre model that rates highly in fuel economy or durability will likely get an eco label of some sort from its manufacturer.
Sourcing and manufacturing processes are also an important aspect of eco tyres, as they are with sustainable clothing and the like. Some brands are taking this more seriously than others. For example, Continental and Hankook have received awards for their sustainability and supply chain efforts.
Do eco tires improve fuel efficiency significantly?
That depends on what you would classify as ‘significantly’. While there are differing opinions and varied results, the general consensus is that an eco tyres can reduce fuel costs between 3% to 10%. Of course, there are a number of other factors that can affect your car’s fuel economy, but eco tyres can make a positive difference.
Are eco tires more expensive than regular tires?
Yes – in most cases an eco tyre is more expensive than a regular tyre, but that higher initial cost is often offset by the savings in fuel consumptions that you can expect after weeks and months of driving. Eco tyres could potentially be more difficult to find for your car, as they aren’t as readily available as regular tyres.
What should I look for when buying a tyre?
When looking for your next set of tyres, the EU tyre label should be your first point of reference and comparison. Updated in 2021, this label gives every single tyre on the European market a rating on fuel efficiency, wet braking, noise, and suitability for winter or extreme cold.
How is the tyre industry improving itself?
In 2005 a collection of tyre companies began the Tire Industry Project (TIP), which researches and aims to improve the sustainability of tyres throughout the cycle, from sustainable rubber sourcing to road wear particles to end of life management.
Current members are Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear, Hankook, Kumho Tire, Michelin, Pirelli, Sumitomo Rubber, Toyo Tires, and Yokohama Rubber.
In 2018, TIP and others launched the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR). This platform is about making the rubber industry socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable. Members include, among others, much of the tyre industry, the World Wildlife Fund for Nature, Rainforest Alliance, and some carmakers.
The idea with the GPSNR is for members to publish and collectively improve their relevant policies.
Sign up to the Parkers Newsletter to keep up to date with more of the latest reviews, news, and recommendations from the Parkers team.
Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.
