JARGON BUSTERS

Quick Guide to Markings & Features

• EVc (EV-Compatible): Optimised for electric vehicles to handle higher torque and battery weight while preserving range.
• FR (Felgen Rippe): Features a reinforced rubber rib (rim protector) to shield expensive alloy wheels from kerb scuffing.
• 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake): Certified for legal use in severe winter conditions, offering verified traction on snow and ice.
• C-Marking (Commercial): Indicates the tyre is specifically designed for Commercial vehicles, vans, and light trucks. These tyres are built with reinforced internal structures and multiple plies to handle heavier load capacities and the higher inflation pressures required for professional use compared to standard passenger car tyres.
• Brick Design Sidewall: A robust scuff rib pattern that provides extra protection against sidewall damage and abrasions.
• Snow Catchers: Special lateral grooves designed to "lock" snow within the tread, providing superior snow-on-snow traction. 

• Load/Speed Ratings: The dual number (e.g., 104R-102R) refers to single and dual-fitment load capacities, while the letter (R, T, S, H) indicates the maximum safe speed for that load. 

Popular Fitments

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter & VW Crafter: Delivers precision handling and high-load stability for large-capacity transporters, meeting strict OE performance standards.
• Ford Transit & Toyota Hiace: Provides durable, reliable performance for classic commercial workhorses, ensuring high mileage and safety on intensive local delivery routes.
• Renault Master & Opel Movano: Engineered to withstand high-frequency urban stopping and starting, offering excellent fuel economy for modern logistics.
• Fiat Ducato & Peugeot Boxer: Enhances ride comfort and wet-weather braking for heavy-duty chassis, ideal for both delivery vans and motorhome conversions.

Summer Tyres vs All-Season & The Irish Climate

In Ireland’s mild, damp climate, the Summer VanContact Ultra is the efficiency leader, offering peak braking performance and fuel savings above 7°C. For fleets requiring 365-day mobility without seasonal changeovers, the VanContact A/S Ultra features the 3PMSF (Snowflake) symbol, staying flexible and grippy during unpredictable Irish winter frosts.

Load Rating and Speed Rating Explained

For vans and LCVs, the load index is a numerical code representing the maximum weight a single tyre can safely carry; the combined capacity of all four tyres must exceed the vehicle’s gross weight when fully loaded.

The speed rating (a letter) indicates the maximum velocity a tyre can maintain. Common LCV ratings include R (170 km/h), T (190 km/h), and H (210 km/h).

Essential Rule: Always check your vehicle’s tyre information plate (usually on the door pillar) and never fit a tyre with a lower load index or speed rating than the manufacturer's specification. See Table...

Common Sizes
185, 80, R14 C, 102/100S, EVc
195, 65, R15 C, 98/96T, EVc
195, 70, R15 C, 104/102T, EVc
205, 65, R15 C, 102/100T, EVc
215, 65, R15 C, 104/102T, EVc
185, 75, R16 C, 104/102R, EVc
195, 65, R16 C, 104T, EVc
195, 75, R16 C, 107R
205, 65, R16 C, 107T, EVc
205, 75, R16 C, 113R
215, 60, R16 C, 103T, FR
215, 65, R16 C, 106T, FR
215, 65, R16 C, 109T, EVc
215, 75, R16 C, 116R, EVc
235, 65, R16 C, 121R
225, 55, R17 C, 109H, EVc