Car Tyres - speed markings

 

Service Description

In addition to the Tyre Size Designation a tyre's performance capability may be identified by a Service Description consisting of a Load Index (or two load indices in the case of single/dual fitments) and a Speed Symbol.

Speed Symbol

Indicates the max speed at which the tyre can carry a load corresponding to its Load Index (except for speeds above 210km/h) under service conditions specified by the tyre manufacturer.

Speed Category

Indicate tyre speed capabilities:
- above 210 km/h for VR tyres (Obsolete)
- above 240 km/h for ZR tyres
and are included within the tyres size designation
e.g. 215/50 ZR 15

In those cases where a Service Description is not shown. Consult the tyre manufacturer for actual speed capability and load capacity.
Speed

Car Tyres - speed limits

MarkingCharacteristics
Speed symbol "V"Designed as a fitment for vehicles with a speed capability not exceeding 240 km/h (e.g. 225/55 R 14 91 V)
Speed category "ZR"Designed as a fitment for vehicles with a speed capability over 240 km/h (e.g. 195/50 ZR 15)
Speed category "VR"Obsolete. For Vehicles having speed capability over 210 km/h (e.g. 185/60 VR 13)
Speed symbol "W"Designed as a fitment for vehicles having speed capability not exceeding 270 km/h (e.g. 225/55 R 14 91 W)
Speed symbol "Y"Designed as a fitment for vehicles having speed capability not exceeding 300 km/h
ZR + Speed symbol "W"For a transitional period only tyres will be marked with both designations. Designed as a fitment for vehicles with a speed capability over 240 km/h but not exceeding 270 km/h (e.g. 195/50 ZR 15 82 W)
ZR + Speed symbol "Y"For a transitional period only tyres will be marked with both designations. Designed as a fitment for vehicles with a speed capability over 240 km/h but not exceeding 300 km/h (e.g. 195/50 ZR 15 82 Y)
ZR + Load index/Speed Symbol "Y" in bracketsTyres will be marked with both designations. Designed as a fitment for vehicles with a speed capability over 240 km/h and exceeding 300 km/h (e.g. 195/50 ZR 15 82 Y)

Last Revised: 02-10-2006