From July, tire pressure monitoring systems in new trucks and trailers are mandatory in the EU

The new TPMS regulations aim to increase road safety by minimizing the risk of tire-related incidents that can lead to serious accidents. Mandatory TPMS in trucks is also expected to improve fleet efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Underinflated tires wear out faster, increase fuel consumption, and are susceptible to unexpected failures.

We would like to remind you that in accordance with the UN-ECE-R-141 regulation, tire temperature and pressure sensors are mandatory in newly homologated trucks, semi-trailers and trailers from July 6, 2022. In just a month, this requirement will be extended to all newly registered trucks in the category M2, M3, N1, N2, N3, O3 and O4 with a total weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes.

Vehicle tire pressure is measured indirectly, using an algorithm that calculates the pressure based on factors such as wheel rotation, or directly, using sensors mounted on the wheel (rim, valve or tire). The TPMS must be able to immediately notify the driver if the tire pressure deviates from the recommended pressure by 20% or more or drops below 150 kPa.

If the tire pressure deviates from a certain threshold, the driver must be notified by a visual warning signal (e.g. warning light) within 60 minutes of accumulated driving time.

Lower costs for carriers When introducing the regulations, the European Commission predicted that the new equipment would increase road safety and reduce carriers’ costs. Driving with underinflated tires causes faster tread wear and higher fuel consumption. Additionally, maintaining the correct tire pressure can reduce speeding accidents and tire blowouts by between 4% and 20%, estimates the European Tire and Rubber Manufacturers Association (ETRMA).

According to ETRMA, European trucks travel 40-65% of the time with underinflated tires, and an additional 10% of them drive on significantly underinflated tires.

The European Commission estimates that additional sensors will cost users between EUR 11 and EUR 56 million per year. However, the investment is expected to pay off within five years.