All-season tires reach top sales position in Germany

All-season tires have reached a sales peak in Germany, surpassing both summer and winter tires for the first time according to data from the Federal Association of Tire Trade and Vulcanizing Crafts. While often perceived as a compromise for performance-oriented or tuned vehicles, manufacturers such as Pirelli, Continental, and Michelin are now offering sporty models with high speed indices.

Legally, all-season tires equipped with the Alpine symbol (a mountain pictogram with a snowflake) fulfill the situational winter tire requirement in Germany. This symbol is critical as M+S markings are no longer sufficient for winter compliance as of October 1, 2024.

In recent ADAC testing, the Goodyear Ultra Grip Performance 3 secured first place in the 225/40 R18 size category, noted for safe and precise handling on both wet and dry roads. Other notable brands mentioned in the context of tire performance and availability include Michelin.