Adopting global tyre safety standards in South Africa could enhance road safety and improve vehicle efficiency, according to the Product Testing Institute (PTI).
The PTI has urged the Department of Transport to implement new regulations focusing on rolling resistance and retreading.
Tyre Failures and Road Safety
Tyre-related failures contribute to approximately two road fatalities per day in South Africa, adding up to over 700 deaths annually.
“Introducing mandatory local standards for retreading and rolling resistance is crucial,” said Alex Erdman, Laboratory Manager at PTI.
A key barrier to enforcing these standards has been the absence of local testing facilities. However, the PTI recently gained formal accreditation from the SA National Accreditation System (SANAS) to test tyres domestically.
The Benefits of Safe Tyre Retreading
The PTI emphasized that retreading is a cost-effective solution to extend tyre lifespan while reducing waste.
“High-quality tyres are designed for multiple retreads, ensuring better returns on the initial investment,” the institute explained.
To guarantee safety, South Africa needs to adopt global retread safety standards such as UN ECE 108 and UN ECE 109. A well-regulated retreading industry would provide affordable, high-quality retreaded tyres, limiting reliance on lower-quality imports.
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Rolling Resistance and Fuel Efficiency
Proper testing of rolling resistance offers additional advantages. Tyres with higher rolling resistance require more energy to move, leading to increased fuel consumption.
By adopting UN ECE R117, South Africa could achieve lower fuel costs and reduced carbon emissions.
Previously, the National Regulator of Compulsory Standards (NRCS) had to depend on overseas testing facilities, leading to high costs and long delays.
With the PTI now equipped for local testing, South Africa can enhance road safety, sustainability, and industry growth while reducing dependence on foreign testing services.
