In a recent development that marks a significant shift in the tyre industry's approach to sustainability and cost efficiency, the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) and British Tyre Manufacturers Association (BTMA) have jointly issued a position statement in support of tyre retreading.
This Q&A article delves into the key aspects of their statement, shedding light on the benefits and future plans associated with tyre retreading.
What prompted the NTDA and BTMA to issue a statement on retreading?
The NTDA and BTMA recognized the need to address and correct outdated perceptions surrounding tyre retreading. At the 2023 NTDA Tyre Industry Conference, it was highlighted that the industry is hindered by legacy information and unfounded prejudices against retreading. This joint statement aims to set the record straight and promote the advantages of retreading based on current data and practices.
What are the main points of the position statement?
The statement revolves around five critical areas: safety, cost, environment, the UK retread sector, and planned actions. It emphasizes that modern retreads are as safe as, if not safer than, new tyres, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative. The statement also highlights the significant contributions of the UK retread sector to the economy and job market, especially in deprived areas.
How do retreaded tyres compare to new tyres in terms of safety?
The statement clarifies that modern retreaded tyres must pass the same rigorous endurance tests as new tyres. Research by National Highways has shown that retreads are no more likely to fail in service than new tyres, debunking a common myth about their reliability.
Can retreading actually save costs for fleet operators?
Yes, incorporating retreaded tyres into a tyre policy can significantly reduce fleet operating costs. The statement points out that a policy including retreads can be more competitive than one relying solely on low-cost new tyres, considering the total cost of ownership, which includes factors like longevity, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
What environmental benefits does retreading offer?
A: Retreading is highlighted as a superior choice for the environment. A tyre policy that includes retreading consumes 75% fewer tyres and releases up to 50% less tread wear material compared to policies based on low-cost new tyres. Additionally, retreading uses 85% of the material from the original tyre, saving natural resources and reducing CO2 emissions.
What is the current state of the UK retread sector?
Despite challenging market conditions, the UK retread sector has seen over £15 million in investments over the last five years, leading to improved quality, productivity, and capability. UK-made retreads add significantly more value to the economy and support hundreds of jobs, often in deprived areas.
What future actions do the NTDA and BTMA plan to take regarding retreading?
The associations are committed to advocating for government support to help smaller operators benefit from the cost savings and environmental advantages of retreading. They also plan to continue promoting best practice advice and up-to-date information on tyre management and stewardship within the industry.
This joint position statement by the NTDA and BTMA marks a pivotal moment in the tyre industry, highlighting the shift towards more sustainable and cost-effective practices through the support of tyre retreading.
