I recently posted angst about a delay in not getting the second of a pair of tires because of "kingpin interference." But it is part of a long term effort to reduce rolling resistance: low tire flex heating - use high wear rated tires, 60+ k miles larger diameter - like bicycle and motorcycle tires, reduces flex at road contact patch narrow - reduces aerodynamic drag high pressure - reduce flex at some increase in sensitivity to road imperfections The extreme example are bicycle 'sew ups' that are narrow, pressurized to 100 psi, and large diameter. In a similar fashion, the tires on a BMW i3: Trying to retro fit maximum diameter, narrow, high pressure tires to my Tesla remains a challenge. The front diameter is limited by the overhanging, kingpin. Although the rear wheels don't have a kingpin, there is an undocumented, maximum ratio between front and rear tire diameters before the traction control complains. As for the abused term "low rolling resistance" tires, unless measured, it is marketing lies, not a fact. Tire manufacturers have absolutely resisted any sort of uniform testing by the EPA or State governments. That leaves individuals to figure out the problem. Bob Wilson
Having just switched to Michelin CrossClimate2's (part of the marketing campaign - & on Bob's list) they do make reference to Rolling resistance. The big push is how well they do in Rain / snow & on ice, with their unusual tread pattern. They've been out long enough where users report great satisfaction with the worst weather conditions. but the first thought that comes to mind is - nothing gets good rolling resistance when you're slogging through mud & ice & such. When drivers experience the worst conditions - rolling resistance has to take a backseat for the ½ of the year when good weather finally returns. Your driving conditions may vary. Edit: Surprisingly (as others have reported too) these things are quiet as well. That's especially important when you're driving Electric .
I'm not a fan of LRR tires. Their theoretic fuel savings are completely offset by lousy stopping distances, dry or wet that theoretically could lead to an at-fault rear ender. Not a single one in the fleet--all replaced in week 1 of ownership. Wouldn't ever describe the PriusV as sporty handling, but a marked improvement in all areas but for NVH in the cabin.
My last attempt to use them revealed they have different names for products I could not find in the USA. But I strongly suspect efficient tires are more popular in Europe than the USA. Bob Wilson
Consumers just get a bit more say over there in general. The required posted tire ratings also include things like noise level.
