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German tire regulations and evolving safety test results

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-09-22 11:59 UTC → 2026-09-23 08:13 UTC · added removed

German tire regulations and market trends evolving safety test results

Germany has implemented updated regulations regarding winter tire usage. As of October 2024, tires must feature the Alpine symbol (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake or 3PMSF) to be legally recognized as winter tires during snowy or icy conditions, as M+S markings are no longer sufficient for compliance. 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. To address the perception that all-season tires are a compromise for performance-oriented vehicles, manufacturers like Pirelli, Continental, and Michelin are now offering sporty models with high speed indices. In Safety concerns persist as recent ADAC testing, the Goodyear Ultra Grip Performance 3 was noted for safe and precise handling in the 225/40 R18 size category. Recent comparative 2026 testing by major European organizations, including automotive clubs—including the ADAC, ÖAMTC, and AvD, has and TCS—has revealed significant performance disparities among winter and all-season models. safety disparities. In tests for small cars (185/65 R15) and mid-size vehicles (225/50 R17), a high percentage of 32 winter tires, many models failed to meet safety standards, particularly in the 185/65 R15 dimension for standards. For small cars, where dangerous braking distances on wet roads surfaces were observed. In some instances, the gap in braking distance a primary concern, with gaps between top and bottom performers reached reaching nearly 18 meters. For mid-sized vehicles (225/50 R17), high-quality options include the Pirelli Cinturato Winter 3, While premium brands like Continental WinterContact (WinterContact TS 870, Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3, and 870), Michelin Alpin 7. Regarding all-season options, the Continental AllSeasonContact 2 was highlighted for balanced (Alpin 7), and Pirelli (Cinturato Winter 3) continue to lead, budget manufacturers such as Linglong and Optimo have shown improved mid-range performance. Experts advise consumers reiterate that brand reputation does not guarantee safety, as several well-known models failed to prioritize provide balanced performance across wet, snowy, snow, ice, and dry conditions over brand reputation or low costs. wet conditions.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-23 08:13 UTC German tire regulations and evolving safety test results
  2. 2026-09-22 11:59 UTC German tire regulations and market trends
  3. 2026-09-20 19:06 UTC German tire regulations and market trends

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