The new TPMS legislation aims to increase road safety by minimising the risk of tyre-related incidents, which can lead to serious accidents. Mandatory TPMS on lorries are also expected to improve fleet efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Under-inflated tyres wear out more quickly and increase fuel consumption, as well as being at risk of unexpected failure.
As a reminder, under Regulation UN-ECE-R-141, temperature and tyre pressure sensors have been mandatory on newly approved lorries, semi-trailers, and trailers since 6 July 2022. In just one month, this requirement will be extended to all newly registered heavy goods vehicles in categories M2, M3, N1, N2, N3, O3, and O4 with a gross vehicle mass exceeding 3.5 tonnes.
Vehicle tyre pressure is measured either indirectly, using an algorithm that calculates pressure based on factors such as wheel revolutions, or directly, using sensors mounted on the wheel (rim, valve, or tyre). The TPMS must be able to immediately alert the driver if the tyre pressure deviates by 20% or more from the recommended pressure, or if it falls below 150 kPa.
If the tyre pressure deviates from the specified threshold, the driver must be notified by a visual warning signal (e.g., an indicator light) within 60 minutes of accumulated driving time.
Lower costs for hauliers When introducing the legislation, the European Commission anticipated that the new equipment would increase road safety and reduce hauliers’ costs. Driving with under-inflated tyres is associated with faster tread wear and higher fuel consumption. In addition, maintaining correct tyre pressure could reduce the number of speed-related accidents and tyre blowouts by between 4% and 20%, estimates the European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA).
According to the ETRMA, European lorries travel 40-65% of the time with under-inflated tyres, with an additional 10% driven on severely under-inflated tyres.
The European Commission estimates that the additional sensors will cost users between €11 million and €56 million annually. However, the investment is expected to pay for itself within five years.