European Approved Tires?

[jcruz]

Hi all,

I got a question from someone in Europe about "European-approved" tires that fit the ZR-1? Apparently one can't drive on public roads over there without properly approved tires. He said Michelin used to produce them, but they're no longer available.

Never heard of such a thing ;-)

Are "European approved" rear tires available for our cars?

Thanks,

John

[DRM500RUBYZR-1]

They must be the same size as on the door placard.
Michelin makes 335's but not 315's.
That is likely his issue.

Marty

[Matt B]

"European approved" means that parts need to have a certain "E" certification to become road legal. That covers quiet a lot of car parts, if not the majority. Anything related to exterior light, tires, etc, etc.
That certification means that those parts have been thoroughly tested, proved their safe use and compliance with legal/regulatory requirements. If a part come with that certification you can simply bolt it on and you're good to go. In case it's missing, take a Chinese LED headlamp as example, you can pay for an individual certification - but you DON'T want that...

As far as ZR-1 tires are concerned you need to make sure they
- are "E" certified
- have a Maximum speed rating of "ZR" or "Y" and
- fit into the fenders
when you intent to drive your car on public roads. As there are no 315 "Y" rated tires available anymore we tend to use 335/35 instead, preferably Michelin Pilot Sport 2 as they offer a matching 275 front tire. These are made in USA but come with a correct "E" label. Of course one has to calibrate the speedometer to ensure it doesn't show a too low reading - because that's illegal

Michelin by the way are available, I just bought a set of 4 made in 2020. Ordered by my dealer from Michelin France. Expensive, though but easy to get.

Hope that helps

[jcruz]

Very helpful and interesting! Thanks for the info...