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How Can Tyres Improve Mileage and Fuel Economy?

Understanding the link between tyres and fuel efficiency can help you go further on every tank — saving you money and reducing your environmental impact.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to improve your car’s fuel economy, how tyre efficiency is measured, and how the MICHELIN e·Primacy tyre leads the way in energy savings.

🚗 What Is Fuel Economy?

Fuel economy measures how efficiently your vehicle uses fuel — usually expressed in miles per gallon (mpg) or litres per 100 km.

Two cars with the same amount of fuel can travel the same distance but consume fuel differently. Why? Because several factors affect consumption, including driving style, vehicle weight, tyre type, and terrain.

The higher the mpg, the more efficient your vehicle.

That’s why the phrase “fuel economy” refers not just to the car’s engine efficiency, but also to how you can optimise performance through maintenance, tyres, and smart driving habits.

⚙️ How Tyres Affect Fuel Consumption

A key concept in fuel economy is rolling resistance — the energy your car needs to keep its tyres moving on the road.

• The heavier your car, the higher the rolling resistance and the more energy (fuel) it requires to move.

• The lower the rolling resistance, the less energy is needed — meaning better fuel efficiency.

In fact, up to 20% of a combustion car’s fuel consumption can be attributed to tyre rolling resistance. That’s why the right tyre choice can have a real impact on both your fuel bills and CO₂ emissions.

💡 How to Improve Fuel Economy: Practical Tips

If changing cars isn’t an option, here are proven ways to improve your mileage and make your tank go further:

1️⃣ Maintain Proper Tyre Pressure

Under-inflated tyres create more drag, which means the engine must work harder.
✅ Check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before long trips.
Properly inflated tyres improve fuel efficiency, safety, and tyre lifespan.

2️⃣ Keep Up with Vehicle Maintenance

Regular servicing ensures your engine, filters, and sensors are working efficiently.
A well-tuned engine uses fuel more effectively, while a faulty oxygen sensor can reduce efficiency by up to 20%.

3️⃣ Lighten Your Load

Remove unnecessary items from your boot or back seat.
Every extra kilogram adds to the load on your tyres — increasing rolling resistance and fuel use.

4️⃣ Reduce Aerodynamic Drag

Roof boxes, bike racks, and other external accessories increase wind resistance.
Remove them when not in use to reduce drag and improve fuel economy.

5️⃣ Plan Smarter Journeys

Use a GPS or smartphone app to avoid traffic and frequent stops.
Smooth driving, fewer stops, and minimal idling can dramatically improve mileage.

6️⃣ Limit Air Conditioning and Heating

Climate systems use energy, so use them wisely.
Small changes — like dressing for the weather instead of relying solely on A/C — can add up to noticeable fuel savings.

🌿 The Best Tyres for Fuel Efficiency

One tyre stands out for exceptional fuel savings — the MICHELIN e·Primacy.

This innovative tyre was engineered with ultra-low rolling resistance to help you travel further with less fuel.

🗣️ “The energy lost through tyres can represent up to 20% of a combustion car’s fuel consumption,” explains Cyrille Roget, Michelin’s Science and Innovation Communications Director. “The right tyre can really help you save money.”

According to certified tests:

• The MICHELIN e·Primacy saves around 0.21 litres of fuel per 100 km

• That’s approximately €80 in savings over the tyre’s lifetime*

• It has earned an A rating in European tyre labelling for rolling resistance

These savings are paired with Michelin’s hallmark safety, longevity, and comfort, making the e·Primacy both a smart and sustainable choice.

🔍 Understanding the EU Tyre Label

Introduced in 2012 and updated in May 2021, the EU Tyre Label helps drivers compare tyres based on three key criteria:

Choosing A-class energy-efficient tyres can significantly reduce both fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions — a win for your wallet and the planet.

🛞 Eco-Driving: Get the Most from Every Tank

Finally, your driving style has a big influence on how efficiently your car uses fuel.
Smooth, steady driving — often called eco-driving — reduces fuel use and emissions.

Tips for eco-driving include:

• Accelerate gently and brake gradually

• Maintain a steady speed where possible

• Use higher gears efficiently

• Anticipate traffic flow to avoid stop-start movement

By combining good maintenance, fuel-efficient tyres, and eco-driving techniques, you can:
✅ Reduce fuel consumption
✅ Cut CO₂ emissions
✅ Save money every time you drive

⚡ In Summary

• Rolling resistance directly affects fuel consumption — lower is better.

• Tyre choice and pressure are critical to improving fuel economy.

• The MICHELIN e·Primacy tyre leads its class for energy efficiency.

• The EU Tyre Label helps you identify tyres that save fuel and reduce emissions.

• Combine the right tyres with eco-driving habits for the best results.

With the right tyres and driving practices, you’ll travel further, save more, and help protect the environment — one kilometre at a time.