REPORT on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters

2.4.2009 - (COM(2008)0779 – C6‑0411/2008 – 2008/0221(COD)) - ***I

Committee on Industry, Research and Energy
Rapporteur: Ivo Belet

DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters

(COM(2008)0779 – C6‑0411/2008 – 2008/0221(COD))

(Codecision procedure: first reading)

The European Parliament,

–   having regard to the Commission proposal to the European Parliament and the Council (COM(2008)0779),

–   having regard to Article 251(2) and Article 95 of the EC Treaty, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C6‑0411/2008),

–   having regard to Rule 51 of its Rules of Procedure,

–   having regard to the report of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy and the opinion of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (A6-0218/2009),

1.  Approves the Commission proposal as amended;

2.  Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it intends to amend the proposal substantially or replace it with another text;

3.  Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council and Commission.

Amendment  1 Proposal for a directive Title
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters	Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters
	(This amendment applies throughout the text. Adopting it will necessitate corresponding changes throughout.)
Justification
A regulation should logically be chosen as an instrument. The type approval of motor vehicles with regard to safety, COM(2008)0316, which addresses the supply side by means of minimum requirements, should, in accordance with the Commission’s reasoning, be complemented with this proposal to be directed at the demand side. This should ensure a standard level of tyre quality. The regulation vouches directly for the provisions with reference to the labelling obligations, as transposition into national right is not required.
Amendment  2 Proposal for a directive Recital 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(4) Tyres are characterised by a number of parameters which are interrelated. Improving one parameter such as rolling resistance may have an adverse impact on other parameters such as wet grip, while improving wet grip may have an adverse impact on external rolling noise. Tyre manufacturers should be encouraged to optimise all parameters.	(4) Tyres are characterised by a number of parameters which are interrelated. Improving one parameter such as rolling resistance may have an adverse impact on other parameters such as wet grip, while improving wet grip may have an adverse impact on external rolling noise. Tyre manufacturers should be encouraged to optimise all parameters, without undercutting safety standards which have already been achieved.
Justification
It should be made quite clear that safety is given first priority.
Amendment  3 Proposal for a directive Recital 6 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(6a) In order to increase understanding and awareness about rolling resistance, a fuel savings calculator, such as that which already exists for C3 tyres, would serve as a meaningful tool to demonstrate potential savings of fuel, money and CO2.
Justification
The labelling scheme for tyres at EU level aims to respond to the suboptimal market transformation towards fuel efficient tyres arising from lack of information. A fuel savings calculator would contribute to allowing consumers to make a more informed choice.
Amendment   4 Proposal for a directive Recital 10 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(10a) Snow tyres and Nordic winter tyres have specific parameters that are not fully comparable to normal tyres. In order to ensure that end-users make fair and informed decisions, the parameters of these tyres should be displayed in a way that puts them on an equal footing with normal tyres.
Justification
In the proposal, no specific arrangement has been made for snow tyres (or Nordic winter tyres). This is an omission, since their parameters (such as wet grip) are not comparable to normal tyres. The label for this kind of tyres should therefore be adapted, as to reflect their specifics. This should be done through comitology, since grading scales and testing methods are not established yet.
Amendment  5 Proposal for a directive Recital 11 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(11a) Tyre manufacturers, suppliers and distributors should be encouraged to comply with the provisions of this Regulation before 2012 to speed up the recognition of the scheme and realisation of its benefits.
Justification
Introduction of the labelling scheme as soon as possible, initially via voluntary compliance, will promote consumer recognition of the scheme and bring earlier reduction of fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and road traffic noise.
Amendment  6 Proposal for a directive Recital 17 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(17a) Potential purchasers should be provided with supplementary standardised information which explains each of the components of the label - fuel efficiency, wet grip and noise emissions - and their relevance, and includes a fuel savings calculator which demonstrates average savings of fuel, CO2 and costs. This information should be provided on the EU tyre labelling website and on explanatory leaflets and posters at all points of sale. The website address should be clearly indicated on the label and all technical promotional literature.
Justification
A central, independent, authoritative source of information is essential to the transparency and public acceptance of the labelling scheme. The site will provide simple, brief explanations of each of the pictograms. The site should explain the rationale behind the scheme and the benefits to drivers and hauliers, as well as overall contribution towards reducing CO2 emissions and road noise. This site should be established and maintained by the European Commission, as the authority for the labelling scheme, to ensure that the same information is provided to all consumers across the EU.
Amendment  7 Proposal for a directive Recital 19
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(19) Where Member States put in place incentives in favour of fuel-efficient tyres, it is appropriate that minimum fuel efficiency classes be determined in order to avoid fragmentation of the internal market. Such incentives might constitute State aid. This Directive is without prejudice to the outcome of any future State aid procedure that may be undertaken in accordance with Articles 87 and 88 of the Treaty in their respect.	(19) In order to meet the challenge of reducing the CO2 emissions of road transport, it is appropriate for Member States to put in place incentives in favour of fuel-efficient tyres. These incentives should be in accordance with Articles 87 and 88 of the Treaty ║. In order to avoid fragmentation of the internal market, classes of minimum fuel efficiency should be determined.
Justification
An important instrument for Member States to reduce CO2 emissions is to put in place (fiscal) incentives in favour of more sustainable tyres. Those incentives should be in accordance with State Aid rule and should aim at promoting the most fuel efficient tyres.
Amendment  8 Proposal for a directive Recital 20
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(20) Compliance with provisions on labelling by manufacturers, suppliers and distributors is essential to achieve the aims of those provisions. Member States should therefore monitor such compliance through market surveillance and regular ex-post controls.	(20) Compliance with provisions on labelling by manufacturers, suppliers and distributors is essential to achieve the aims of those provisions and to ensure a level playing field within the Community. Member States should therefore determine effective measures, including market surveillance, regular ex-post controls and effective sanctions, sufficient to ensure enforcement of the provisions of this Regulation.
Justification
The ensure a level playing field for all tyre manufacturers, both within the Community and vis-à-vis their international competitors, it is of the utmost importance that the provisions of this Regulation will be vigorously enforced in each and every Member State
Amendment  9 Proposal for a directive Recital 20 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(20a) Member States should strive, in implementing the relevant provisions of this Regulation, to refrain from measures that impose unjustified, bureaucratic and unwieldy obligations on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and, where feasible, to take into consideration the special needs and financial and administrative constraints on SMEs.
Justification
SMEs do not have the same financial and administrative recourses as their larger counterparts. Moreover, SMEs are especially sensitive to bureaucratic and unwieldy systems. It is therefore important to stress the importance in the Member States taking the SMEs vulnerable situation into consideration when implementing the provisions laid down in this Regulation.
Amendment  10 Proposal for a directive Recital 20 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(20b) For the proper evaluation of the implementation of this Regulation, a review should be undertaken to ascertain whether changes are necessary. This review should focus in particular on consumers' understanding of the label, including the noise parameter, and adaptation to technological change.
Amendment  11 Proposal for a directive Article 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The aim of this Directive is to increase the fuel-efficiency of road transport by promoting fuel-efficient tyres.	The aim of this Regulation is to increase the safety and the economic and environmental efficiency of road transport by promoting fuel-efficient, safe and quiet tyres.
This Directive establishes a framework for the provision of information on tyre parameters through labelling.	This Regulation establishes a framework for the provision of harmonised information on tyre parameters through labelling, allowing consumers to make an informed choice when purchasing tyres.
Justification
Stressing the integrated approach character of this Regulation.
Amendment  12 Proposal for a directive Article 3 – point 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(2a) "snow tyre" means a tyre whose tread pattern, tread compound or structure are primarily designed to achieve in snow conditions a performance better than that of a normal tyre with regard to its ability to initiate or maintain vehicle motion;
Justification
Definitions in this proposal should be aligned with the recent agreed text on the proposed regulation concerning type approval for the general safety of cars.
Amendment  13 Proposal for a directive Article 3 – point 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(3) ‘point of sale’ means a location where tyres are displayed, stored or offered for sale, including car show rooms as regards displayed tyres which are not fitted on the vehicles;	(3) ‘point of sale’ means a location where tyres are displayed or offered for sale, including car show rooms as regards displayed tyres which are not fitted on the vehicles;
Justification
Tyres can be stored in logistics centres or warehouses, which are not accessible to consumers, and therefore should not be considered as ‘points of sale’.
Amendment  14 Proposal for a directive Article 3 – point 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(4) ‘technical promotional literature’ means all printed and electronic material used in the marketing of tyres or vehicles aimed at end-users or distributors which describes the specific parameters of a tyre, including technical manuals, brochures, Internet marketing, leaflets and catalogues;	(4) ‘technical promotional literature’ means technical manuals, brochures, leaflets and catalogues, either printed, or in electronic form or published on the internet but excluding media advertising, used in the marketing of tyres or vehicles, aimed at end-users or distributors which describe the specific parameters of a tyre;
Justification
The amendments clarify the nature of technical literature in printed or electronic (e.g. Internet) form (as distinct from media advertising, e.g. in the press, on the Internet, on TV etc.) [Second sentence of Justification does not affect EN version].
Amendment  15 Proposal for a directive Article 3 – point 5 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(5a) ‘fuel savings calculator’ means a tool provided on dedicated tyre labelling websites to demonstrate potential average savings of fuel, CO2 and costs, for C1, C2 and C3 tyre classes;
Justification
To demonstrate the direct benefits to drivers, hauliers, fleet managers and other purchasers in terms of fuel consumption and money spent, as well as the environmental benefits.
Amendment  16 Proposal for a directive Article 3 – point 5 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(5b) ‘EU tyre labelling website’ means a central online source of explanatory and supplementary information administered by the Commission, regarding each of the components of the tyre label and including a fuel savings calculator,;
Justification
A central, independent, authoritative source of information is essential to the transparency and public acceptance of the labelling scheme. The site will provide simple, brief explanations of each of the pictograms. The site should explain the rationale behind the scheme, and the benefits to drivers and hauliers, as well as overall contribution towards reducing CO2 emissions and road noise. This site should be established and maintained by the European Commission, as the authority for the labelling scheme, to ensure that the same information is provided to consumers across the EU.
Amendment  17 Proposal for a directive Article 3 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 3a
	Responsibilities of the Commission
	1. The Commission shall establish and administer, no later than September 2010, the ‘EU tyre labelling website’ as a central source of explanatory information for each component of the label.
	Explanatory leaflets and posters with the same core content as the website shall be distributed to points of sale for tyres and vehicles.
	The leaflets and posters shall be provided in appropriate languages at the point of sale.
	The website, leaflets and posters shall include:
	(i) an explanation of the pictograms printed on the label;
	(ii) a fuel savings calculator which demonstrates potential savings of fuel, money and CO2 by fitting low rolling resistance tyres for C1, C2 and C3 tyre classes;
	(iii) a statement highlighting the fact that actual fuel savings and road safety heavily depend on drivers' behaviour, in particular the following:
	– eco-driving, which can significantly reduce fuel consumption;
	– tyre pressure, that should be regularly checked for higher wet grip and fuel efficiency performance characteristics;
	– stopping distances, that should always be strictly respected.
	2. In order to communicate to the consumer the consequences of tyre choice for future fuel bills, the Commission shall establish for each class of tyres (C1, C2, C3) a formula that enables calculation of the extra fuel consumption or fuel savings during the lifetime of a full set of these tyres compared with a C class tyre of the same category. These formulae shall use the following inputs:
	– estimate of the EU average lifetime, in km, of the tyre class;
	– estimate of the EU average real-life fuel consumption per km driven by a vehicle fitted with the tyre class concerned;
	– estimate of the percentage of fuel savings achieved per kg/tonne reduced rolling resistance for the vehicle fitted with the tyre class concerned.
	The formulae and results in terms of fuel consumption, monetary costs and CO2 emissions shall be made available to the general public through the EU tyre labelling website and may be reproduced on the websites of tyre manufacturers, distributors and retailers.
	3. The Commission shall provide guidelines for manufacturers, suppliers and distributors on the presentation of the relevant information from the label in technical and promotional literature, including, if appropriate, recommendations for graphic design.
Justification
This new article insists on the responsibilities of the Commission with regards to the website, the calculation and communication on a fuel savings calculator, and guidelines on information from the label.
Common formulae according to which future fuel savings, or additional fuel expenditure, are to be calculated and presented, must be defined at EU level.
The information presented across the various technical and promotional materials must have a readily recognisable visual identity defined at European level, and is presented to potential buyers in a prominent position.
Amendment  18 Proposal for a directive Article 4 – paragraphs 1 and 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(1) suppliers shall ensure that C1 and C2 tyres, which are delivered to distributors or end-users, are equipped with a sticker on the tyre tread displaying a label indicating the fuel efficiency class as set out in Annex I, Part A and the external rolling noise measured value as set out in Annex I, Part C; C1 tyre labels shall also indicate the wet grip class as set out in Annex I, Part B;	(1) suppliers shall ensure that C1 and C2 tyres delivered to distributors or end-users are supplied with a label to be displayed by any means or by a sticker on the tyre tread, indicating the fuel efficiency and wet grip class and the external rolling noise measured value, as set out in Annex I, Parts A, B and C, respectively;
(2) the format of the sticker referred to in paragraph 1 shall be as prescribed in Annex II;	(2) the format of the sticker and the label referred to in paragraph 1 shall be as prescribed in Annex II;
Amendment  19 Proposal for a directive Article 4 – paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(3) suppliers shall state the fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and the external rolling noise measured value on technical promotional literature as set out in Annex I in the order specified in Annex III;	(3) suppliers shall state the fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and the external rolling noise measured value on technical promotional literature as set out in Annex I in the order specified in Annex III. For C2 and C3 tyres the measured rolling resistance coefficient shall also be stated;
Amendment  20 Proposal for a directive Article 4 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(4a) suppliers shall present measured values from the type approval test with regard to the rolling resistance coefficient (expressed in kg/t), wet grip index (expressed as a performance index, G, compared to the standard reference tyre) and noise emissions (expressed in dB) in a publicly available database.
Justification
It will be essential to the credibility and success of the tyre labelling scheme that it is properly enforced by the relevant national authorities. To facilitate an effective and harmonized verification procedure and proper application of the labelling scheme, it is important that measured values for rolling resistance, wet grip and noise are publicly available. This information must be accessible to the general public, but in particular should be of use to national authorities for monitoring and enforcement purposes. This should be made available via the manufacturers’ websites.
Amendment  21 Proposal for a directive Article 4 – paragraph 4 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(4b) suppliers shall present measured values from the type approval test moulded into or onto each sidewall for each model with regard to rolling resistance coefficient (expressed in kg/t), wet grip index (expressed as a performance index, G, compared to the standard reference tyre) and noise emissions (expressed in dB).
Justification
Declaration of the measured values from the type approval test on the tyre sidewall will facilitate proper enforcement of the tyre labelling scheme. Sidewall moulding will be useful for authorities, distributors and retailers to monitor the correct placement of labels and documentation, verify the declared grading and when retesting the tyre to verify the declared measured values.
The cost per tyre of sidewall moulding is negligible (additional €13 per mould, according to the Impact Assessment, which is spread over the production run employing the mould).
Amendment  22 Proposal for a directive Article 5 – paragraph 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(1) distributors shall ensure that tyres, at the point of sale, bear the sticker provided by suppliers in accordance with Article 4(1) in a clearly visible position;	(1) distributors shall ensure that the sticker or the label provided by suppliers in accordance with Article 4(1) or a more detailed explanatory version of the label as set out in Annex II, point 2a are available and clearly displayed either on the tyre or in its immediate proximity at the point of sale, respectively;
Amendment  23 Proposal for a directive Article 5 – paragraph 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(2) where tyres offered for sale are not visible to the end-user, distributors shall provide end-user with information on the fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and external rolling noise measured value of those tyres;	(2) where tyres offered for sale are not visible to the end-user, distributors shall provide end-user with documentation on the fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and external rolling noise measured value of those tyres;
Justification
For purposes of clarity. Oral information is not sufficient and can not be enforced.
Amendment  24 Proposal for a directive Article 5 – paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(3) for C1 and C2 tyres, distributors shall provide the fuel efficiency class and external rolling noise measured value with the bills delivered to end-users when they purchase tyres. For C1 tyres, the wet grip class shall also be provided.	(3) for C1, C2 and C3 tyres, distributors shall provide the explanatory version of the label as set out in Annex II, point 2a or 2b, stating the fuel efficiency class, the wet grip class and external rolling noise measured value, as set out in Annex I, Parts A, B and C respectively, on or with the bills delivered to end-users when they purchase tyres.
Amendment  25 Proposal for a directive Article 6
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Responsibilities of car suppliers and car distributors	Responsibilities of vehicle suppliers and vehicle distributors
Member States shall ensure that car suppliers and car distributors comply with the following provisions:	Member States shall ensure that vehicle suppliers and vehicle distributors comply with the following provisions:
(1) car suppliers and car distributors shall ensure that technical promotional literature provides information on tyres which are fitted on new vehicles; that information shall include the fuel efficiency class as set out in Annex I, Part A, the external rolling noise measured value as set out in Annex I, Part C and, for C1 tyres, the wet grip class as set out in Annex I, Part B;	(1) vehicle suppliers and vehicle distributors shall provide information on tyres which are fitted on new vehicles; that information shall include the fuel efficiency class as set out in Annex I, Part A, the external rolling noise measured value as set out in Annex I, Part C and, for C1 tyres, the wet grip class as set out in Annex I, Part B, in the order specified in Annex III. This information shall be included in at least the electronic technical promotional literature and be provided to end-users before the sale of the vehicle;
(2) where different tyre types may be fitted on a new vehicle, without end-users being offered a choice between them, the lowest fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and the highest external rolling noise measured value of these tyre types shall be mentioned in the technical promotional literature in the order specified in Annex III;	(2) where different tyre types may be fitted on a new vehicle, without end-users being offered a choice between them, the information referred to in paragraph 1 shall mention the lowest fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and the highest external rolling noise measured value of these tyre types;
(3) where end-users are offered a choice between different tyre types to be fitted on a new vehicle, car suppliers shall state the fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and external rolling noise measured value of these tyre types in the technical promotional literature in the order specified in Annex III;	(3) where end-users are offered a choice between different tyre types to be fitted on a new vehicle, the information referred to in paragraph 1 shall mention the fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and external rolling noise measured value of all these tyre types;
(4) where end-users are offered a choice between different tyre types to be fitted on a new vehicle, car distributors shall provide information on the fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and external rolling noise measured value of these tyre types before sale.
Amendment  26 Proposal for a directive Article 7
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The information to be provided under Articles 4, 5 and 6 on the fuel efficiency class, the external rolling noise measured value, and the wet grip class of tyres shall be obtained by applying the harmonised testing methods referred to in Annex 1.	The information to be provided under Articles 4, 5 and 6 on the fuel efficiency class, the external rolling noise measured value, and the wet grip class of tyres shall be obtained by applying the harmonised testing methods referred to in Annex 1. The harmonised tests shall provide end-users with a reliable and fully representative ranking of the characteristics tested.
Justification
On grounds of road safety and consumer protection the harmonised testing methods must be implemented under the same conditions as those applying during actual use. Inaccurate or poorly simulated tests can be an additional source of confusion for consumers.
Amendment  27 Proposal for a directive Article 8 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Such verifications shall not prejudice any EU vehicle or tyre type-approval obtained in accordance with Directive 2007/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 September 2007 establishing a framework for the approval of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles1 or Regulation (EC) No .../... [concerning type-approval requirements for the general safety of motor vehicles]. For the conformity assessment Member States shall also refer, where applicable, to tyre type approval documentation and to relevant supporting documentation provided by the supplier.
	____________ OJ L 263, 9.10.2007, p. 1.
Justification
To give legal certainty to car- and tyre manufacturers, it has to be clear that controls should not lead to Member States blocking type approved cars and tyres from free circulation in the EU. To minimize and harmonize tyre tests in order to reduce the administrative burden on producers and the costs of testing, the same testing methods should be applied as those defined in the type-approval legislation on tyres.
Amendment  28 Proposal for a directive Article 8 – paragraph 1 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Member States shall ensure that the competent authorities establish a system of routine and non-routine inspections of points of sale for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the requirements of this Regulation.
Justification
To ensure the effective and harmonised implementation of the labelling scheme across the EU. In relation to other energy labelling schemes, consumer organisations have indentified persistent mislabelling of products and failure to present the required information. Member State should undertake spot checks to verify correct labelling and appropriate presentation of the information in sales materials, including stock lists, catalogues, brochures and websites.
Amendment  29 Proposal for a directive Article 9 – paragraph 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
2. Unless they have evidence to the contrary, Member States shall consider that labels and product information comply with the provisions of this Directive. They may require suppliers to provide technical documentation in order to assess the accuracy of the declared values.	2. Unless they have evidence to the contrary, Member States shall consider that labels and product information comply with the provisions of this Regulation. They may require suppliers to provide technical documentation, in accordance with Article 4(4), in order to assess the accuracy of the declared values.
Justification
It is important to ensure that information provided on the label is accurate and based on harmonised testing methods laid down in UNECE Regulations. Member States should verify, on the basis of technical documentation provided by the tyre suppliers, that the information on the label is indeed correct.
Amendment  30 Proposal for a directive Article 10
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Member States shall not provide incentives with regard to tyres below the fuel efficiency level class C within the meaning of Annex I Part A.	Member States shall not provide incentives with regard to tyres below class C with respect to either fuel efficiency level or wet grip within the meaning of Annex I, Parts A and B respectively.
Justification
Under the considerations expressed in Whereas (4) of the Commission proposal (in particular: “rolling resistance may have an adverse impact on other parameters such as wet grip. Tyre manufacturers should be encouraged to optimise all parameters”), the framework for potential incentives, shall take into consideration also the Wet grip performances. It does not appear in the interest of consumer a Member State providing incentives e.g. for a tyre Class A fuel efficiency and Class E wet grip.
Amendment  31 Proposal for a directive Article 11 – point 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(1a) introduction of requirements with respect to snow tyres or Nordic winter tyres;
Justification
In the proposal, no specific arrangement has been made for snow tyres (or Nordic winter tyres). This is an omission, since their parameters (such as wet grip) are not comparable to normal tyres. The label for this kind of tyres should therefore be adapted, as to reflect their specifics. This should be done through comitology, since grading scales and testing methods are not established yet.
Amendment  32 Proposal for a directive Article 11 – paragraph 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(2) introduction of requirements with respect to other essential parameters insofar as those parameters affect the environment, health or safety, provided that suitable harmonised testing methods are available and provided that such requirements are cost-effective;	deleted
Justification
The introduction of new parameters should be done via co-decision and not via comitology.
Amendment  33 Proposal for a directive Article 12
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Penalties	Enforcement and penalties
Member States shall lay down the rules on penalties applicable to infringements of the national provisions adopted pursuant to this Directive and shall take the measures necessary to ensure that they are implemented. The penalties provided for must be effective, proportionate and dissuasive. The Member States shall notify those provisions to the Commission no later than eighteen months after the entry into force of this Directive and shall notify it without delay of any subsequent amendment affecting those provisions.	1. Member States shall, by means of a continuous exchange of information, ensure close cooperation in market supervision in the interest of the consistent implementation of this Regulation. Member States shall take appropriate measures for regular ex-post controls in order to ensure that tyres which are not duly labelled are brought into conformity or taken off the market.
	2. Member States shall introduce measures laying down sanctions for infringements of the provisions of this Regulation, including rules on penalties applicable to infringements of the provisions adopted pursuant to this Regulation and provisions ensuring that they are implemented.
	3. Those measures shall be effective, proportionate and dissuasive.
	4. Member States shall notify those measures and any subsequent amendments thereof to the Commission without delay.
Justification
The ensure a level playing field for all tyre manufacturers, both within the Community and vis-à-vis their international competitors, it is of the utmost importance that the provisions of this Regulation will be vigorously enforced in each and every Member State.
Amendment  34 Proposal for a directive Article 14
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Not later than 5 years after the date of application of this Directive, the Commission shall assess the need to review the energy efficiency and wet grip classes as laid down in Annex I.	1. Not later than three years after the date of application of this Regulation, the Commission shall review the application of this Regulation, considering inter alia:
	(a) the effectiveness of the label in terms of consumer awareness;
	(b) whether the labelling scheme should be extended to include retreaded tyres;
	(c) whether new tyre parameters or classes should be introduced;
	d) the information on tyre parameters provided by vehicle suppliers and distributors to end-users.
	2. The Commission shall, on the basis of this review and after an impact assessment and a consumer survey, submit a report to the European Parliament and the Council, accompanied if appropriate, by a proposal for amendment of this Regulation.
Amendment  35 Proposal for a directive Article 15
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Transposition	Final Provisions
1. Member States shall adopt and publish by 1 November 2011 at the latest, the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this Directive. They shall forthwith communicate to the Commission the text of those provisions and a correlation table between those provisions and this Directive.	1. This Regulation shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
They shall apply those provisions from 1 November 2012.	It shall apply from [date of entry into force + 24 months].
	However, Articles 4 and 5 shall not apply for tyres produced before the entry into force of this Regulation.
When Member States adopt those provisions, they shall contain a reference to this Directive or be accompanied by such a reference on the occasion of their official publication. Member States shall determine how such reference is to be made.
2. Member States shall communicate to the Commission the text of the main provisions of national law which they adopt in the field covered by this Directive.	2. This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.
Amendment  36 Proposal for a directive Annex I – part A – paragraph 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
If a tyre type is approved for more than one tyre class (e.g. C1 and C2), the grading scale used to determine the fuel efficiency class of this tyre type should be that which is applicable to the highest tyre class (e.g. C2, not C1).	deleted
Justification
It is not possible to have a tyre type approved for more than one tyre class (C1 or C2 or C3); C1 are tyre types belonging to UNECE Regulation 30 and cannot overlap to tyre types belonging to UNECE Regulation 54, which concerns C2 and C3 tyres.
Amendment  37 Proposal for a directive Annex I – Part C a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	For low noise tyres defined according to the grading specified below, the labelling of the measured external rolling noise value measured in dB shall be complemented by the "low noise mark":
	External rolling noise classes (dB(A))
C1
C2
C3
Low Noise Mark*
≤68
≤69
≤70
*Low Noise Mark:
Amendment  38 Proposal for a directive Annex II – point 1.1 – illustration
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
72 dB(A)	72 dB
Justification
For purposes of clarity. The (A) should be removed to avoid confusion with an A class.
Amendment  39 Proposal for a directive Annex II – point 1.1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	The following item shall be added to the proposed design:
	website address of the EU tyre label website, in large font at the bottom of the label,
Amendment  40 Proposal for a directive Annex II – point 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2a. Format of expanded explanatory label
	The explanatory version of the label referred to in Article 5 shall be in accordance with the illustration below, and the text translated into the relevant language of the point of sale. This version of the label is to be provided to the customer on or with the bill, unless this results in an undue burden on the distributor, in which case information shall be provided in accordance with Annex II, point 2b.
Justification
Whilst in many instances the consumer will have an opportunity to see the sticker before sale of the tyre, additional complementary sources of information are needed to reach different market segments and sales channels. Nevertheless, the sticker requires further explanation in the form of explanatory text for each pictogram. This should be addressed in other information given to the buyer – at the latest on or with the invoice. Presenting more detailed information on the invoice raises the likelihood that the consumer will make enquiries based on the labelling scheme in future.
Amendment  41 Proposal for a directive Annex II – point 2 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2b. Format of information on the receipt
	Where the costs of printing the explanatory label as outlined in Annex II, point 2a, represent an undue burden on the distributor, the label information shall be provided in accordance with the illustration below:
Amendment  42 Proposal for a directive Annex III – point 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3. Suppliers must also make available on their website:	3. Suppliers must also make available on their website:
	(–i) a link to the EU tyre labelling website;
(i) an explanation of the pictograms printed on the label;	(i) an explanation of the pictograms printed on the label, and the fuel efficiency calculator which is provided on the EU tyre labelling website;
(ii) a statement highlighting the fact that actual fuel savings and road safety heavily depend on drivers' behaviour, in particular the following:	(ii) a statement highlighting the fact that actual fuel savings and road safety depend heavily on drivers' behaviour, in particular the following:
– eco-driving can significantly reduce fuel consumption;	– eco-driving can significantly reduce fuel consumption;
– tyre pressure should be regularly checked for higher wet grip and fuel efficiency performance characteristics;	– tyre pressure should be regularly checked for higher wet grip and fuel efficiency performance characteristics;
– stopping distances should always be strictly respected.	– stopping distances should always be strictly respected.
Justification
See justification under amendment on Article 3 point 5a (new).

EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

An integrated labelling scheme for tyres

With almost 25% of total CO₂ emissions coming from road transport, reducing vehicles’ energy intensity and carbon footprint is a major challenge for the EU. Tyres account for 20 to 30% of vehicles’ total fuel consumption and the enhanced sustainability of tyres should therefore be seen as part of the integrated approach to reduce fuel consumption and emissions in road transport. The list of targeted actions produced in the Energy Efficiency Action Plan to reduce consumption with 20% by 2020 also highlights the labelling of tyres as a potential avenue by which to achieve this goal.

This proposal puts in place a labelling system that will ensure that standardised information is supplied on the fuel efficiency, wet grip and external rolling noise of tyres. This will allow consumers and end-users an informed choice in their tyre purchase. According to the proposal from 2012 on all tyres for passenger cars, light- and heavy-duty vehicles (C1, C2 and C3 tyres) that are put on the market will need to be supplemented by easily and universally understood pictograms indicating the performance of the tyre in the three parameters.

The proposal should be seen in close interaction with the proposed regulation on the type-approval requirements for the general safety of motor vehicles (COM(2008)0316). Where the latter addresses the supply side by means of minimum requirements and guarantees that tyres used on European roads are of an appropriately acceptable quality, the current proposal is directed at the demand side and aims at promoting a market-driven improvement of energy-efficiency and safety.

Your Rapporteur welcomes this proposal. Setting up a harmonized labelling system will be an important step in ensuring a market-transformation towards fuel efficient tyres. Since market surveys clearly show consumer interest in buying more sustainable tyres, the proposed directive will help to raise awareness and to open a discourse between seller and buyer allowing consumers to make an informed choice. It would make consumers aware of the significant difference (both in environmental and economic sense) that exists between tyres - for passenger cars, currently a difference of up to 10% in fuel consumption exists between the best- and worst-performing tyres. The total impact at EU level could be impressive: The impact assessment identified a savings potential of 0.56 to 1.51 Mtoe per year. This is equivalent to removing 0.5 million to 1.3 million passenger cars from EU roads.

Your Rapporteur also welcomes the integrated approach of this proposal. Since improvement in performance of one criterion can adversely affect another (for example a more energy efficient tyre is often less adhesive and therefore less safe), it is important to provide the end-user with all 3 parameters. Furthermore, labelling will not only be beneficial to consumers and businesses. It could also prove of great use to public authorities in their efforts to procure more energy efficient, safer and quieter tyres for their vehicles and in putting in place (fiscal) incentives in favour of more sustainable tyres.

The proposal has been prepared following extensive stakeholders consultation, which is reflected in the balance achieved. The stakeholders, including industry, are across the board supportive of this proposal. Your Rapporteur would like to highlight that this proposal - if well implemented - could trigger an increased competition on the tyre market, with the possibility for producers to benefit from product differentiation leading to competition on the basis of product quality and giving tyre manufacturers incentives to upgrade their products. It is also likely to decrease the entry barriers for new entrants based on reputation. Objective, reliable and comparable information on tyre parameters will ensure the industry will receive more return on its investment in research and development in their effort to place better quality products on the market. In this respect, the proposed harmonisation is in the industry's greater interest.

Your Rapporteur would like to emphasize that the proposed scheme should be workable, as cost-effective as possible and should lead to a level playing field:

Label or sticker

In the proposal, all tyres for passenger cars and light duty vehicles (C1 and C2) have to bear a sticker with the indication of the 3 parameters. Only tyres for heavy duty vehicles (C3) are exempted from this obligation - they have to provide this information in their technical promotional literature. The rationale behind the sticker is that - as the case currently with electrical appliances - it is the most visible option for consumers and the easiest way for public authorities to guarantee that all information reaches the end-user. In considering the proposal of using a sticker, one should take into account that stickers already exist nowadays on tyres of superior manufacture (often with the brand and serial number). This proposal therefore does not place a significant additional burden on manufacturers: It has been estimated that the additional information on the sticker would lead to an additional cost of less than 1 Euro cent per tyre. Furthermore, it allows responsibility for communicating the quality of the tyres to belong clearly and wholly to the tyre manufacturer.

On the other hand, one should consider the particularities of the tyre market: Tyre sales occur in diverse places - from large showrooms where tyres are displayed to small garages where customers have limited or no direct access to the product they are purchasing. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding the propensity of stickers to be removed from the tyre, either by human hand or naturally. Therefore, pragmatic choices are essential to find the best approach to achieve this proposal's goals and effectively communicate the relevant information to the purchaser of the tyre.

Special consideration should be given to car suppliers and car distributors. While it is important that the consumer is informed about the tyres fitted on a new purchased vehicle (especially if this will lead to consumers being more demanding about the fuel efficiency or safety of their fitted tyres), one should also take into account the logistics and administrative burden that this entails. Especially with a view to the current financial and economic situation, one should try to find a balanced approach and to avoid any unnecessary administrative burden.

Level playing field

One important concern of industry is that this Directive should not distort the competition. The Rapporteur believes it is important to guarantee, within the choice of legal form, a level playing field for all manufacturers, both within the Community and vis-à-vis their international competitors. Even if legally speaking a Directive has direct legal effect in all Member States, regardless the national transposition, it is vital that the transposition and implementation, as well as the enforcement (surveillance and penalties), of this proposal will be done uniformly within all Member States.

Implementation

The Rapporteur believes that the implementation of this Directive should allow enough time for manufacturers to comply with the new conditions imposed on them, whilst at the same time guaranteeing a quick transition. Furthermore, it is important to have a flexible but predictable scheme, whereby the parameters can be adjusted to technical progress (to avoid that all tyres in the future will be in 'A' class), but taking into account long term predictability necessary for manufacturers.

Snow tyres

The Rapporteur believes that special attention must be paid to the application of this Directive to snow tyres or Nordic winter tyres, which require additional information on their capability to handle unique conditions. It is important to ensure that labelling will address all concerns of the end-user in every possible climate.

OPINION of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (18.3.2009)

for the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy

on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters
(COM(2008)0779 – C6‑0411/2008 – 2008/0221(COD))

Rapporteur: Rebecca Harms

SHORT JUSTIFICATION

The EU tyre labelling scheme will be complementary to the limit values for fuel efficiency, wet grip and noise emissions, as laid down in the Regulation (EC) No XXXX/XXXX of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning type-approval requirements for the general safety of motor vehicles (COM(2008)0316). Whilst the Regulation will set standards that will eventually phase out the worst performing models from the market, the labelling Directive will stimulate innovation and faster development of the market towards more fuel efficient, safer and quieter tyres.

The European tyre market is highly competitive. But due to the lack of clear information for the consumers competition is rather driven by price and brand recognition than performance characteristics. Purchase decisions based largely on sales price rather than product quality fail to drive the market towards more efficient and safer tyres. By introducing the labelling scheme the consumers will for the first time have access to a systematic and uniform source of independently verified information on tyre performance. The inclusion of three performance characteristics, fuel efficiency, wet grip and noise is appropriate to ensure that efforts are made to optimize each (not improving one at the expense of others).

The rolling resistance of tyres accounts for 20-30% of fuel consumption of vehicles. There is a large spread (100%) between the worst and best performing tyres currently on the European market. The Commission Impact Assessment demonstrates that fuel efficient tyres are cost-effective and a low-cost means of reducing CO2 emissions (COM(2008)746). A 30% reduction in rolling resistance from the current market average for car tyres (approx. 10kg/t) to the current level of best practice (approx. 7kg/t) would bring approximately 5% fuel saving across the vehicle fleet. Any increase in production costs and consumer prices of tyres is expected to be compensated by fuel savings within a payback period of less than 8 months for the most fuel-efficient tyres. Particularly with rising gasoline prices, this is in consumers’ financial as well as environmental interest.

Increased use of quieter tyres will reduce road noise levels and improve quality of life and health for people living in urban areas and near highways. It will reduce the health impacts and associated costs, allow public administrations to redeploy part of the expenditure currently used for noise barriers, and protect property values alongside roads. However, consumers cannot be expected to be familiar with the decibel scale and should be provided with a simple colour scheme models demonstrating loud, average and quiet.

The European Commission must play a key role in informing consumers, by establishing a website and a communications campaign, of the benefits in terms of reduced fuel costs, as well as environmental benefits. On the website it should be possible for the consumer to calculate the potential fuel savings if he changed to more efficient tyres. The requirements to manufacturers and all actors in the distribution and retail chain must be made clear and be subject to monitoring. To ensure compliance with the labelling scheme inspections have to be carried out by the competent authorities in the member states and effective fines have to be put in place.

It is important to recognize that the labelling scheme will not only be useful for individual consumers and drivers, but also for fleet buyers and public procurement purposes. Whilst such purchasers have a more sophisticated level of expertise, market studies indicate that fleet purchasers would strongly appreciate more information regarding fuel efficiency.

AMENDMENTS

The Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety calls on the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy, as the committee responsible, to incorporate the following amendments in its report:

Amendment  1 Proposal for a directive Recital 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(4) Tyres are characterised by a number of parameters which are interrelated. Improving one parameter such as rolling resistance may have an adverse impact on other parameters such as wet grip, while improving wet grip may have an adverse impact on external rolling noise. Tyre manufacturers should be encouraged to optimise all parameters.	(4) Tyres are characterised by a number of parameters which are interrelated. Improving one parameter such as rolling resistance may have an adverse impact on other parameters such as wet grip, while improving wet grip may have an adverse impact on external rolling noise. By the same token, particulate pollution may rise as a result of increased tyre wear linked to changed parameters. Tyre manufacturers should be encouraged to optimise all parameters.
Justification
Road transport is one of the main causes of CO2 emissions. Annual particulate emissions as a result of tyre wear amount to roughly 6.5 kt. A further step in the rules governing particulate emissions will come into force between now and 2010. If parameters such as rolling resistance change, consideration must always also be given to the implications for tyre wear and, by extension, particulate pollution.
Amendment  2 Proposal for a directive Recital 11 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(11a) Tyre manufacturers, suppliers and distributors should be encouraged to comply with the provisions of this Directive before 2012 to speed up recognition of the scheme and realisation of benefits.
Justification
Introduction of the labeling scheme as soon as possible, initially via voluntary compliance, will promote consumer recognition of the scheme and bring earlier reduction of fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and road traffic noise.
Amendment  3 Proposal for a directive Recital 17 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(17a) Potential purchasers should be provided with supplementary standardised information to explain each of the components of the label, fuel efficiency, wet grip and noise emissions, and their relevance, including a fuel savings calculator which demonstrates average savings of fuel, CO2 and costs. This information should be provided by explanatory leaflets and posters at all points of sale, and on the EU tyre labelling website. The website address should be clearly indicated on the label and all technical promotional literature.
Justification
To establish a central source of information to clearly explain the rationale behind the labelling scheme, benefits to consumers in terms of fuel and cost savings, as well as contribution towards CO2 and traffic noise reduction.
Amendment  4 Proposal for a directive Recital 22
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(22) In particular, power should be conferred on the Commission to introduce requirements with respect to wet grip grading of C2 and C3 tyre classes, to introduce requirements with respect to essential tyre parameters other than fuel efficiency, wet grip and external rolling noise and to adapt the Annexes to technical progress. Since those measures are of general scope and are designed to amend non-essential elements of this Directive by supplementing it, they must be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny provided for in Article 5a of Decision 1999/468/EC.	(22) In particular, power should be conferred on the Commission to introduce requirements with respect to wet grip grading of C2 and C3 tyre classes, to introduce requirements with respect to essential tyre parameters other than fuel efficiency and external rolling noise and to adapt the Annexes to technical progress, also taking account of particulate pollution caused by tyre wear. Since those measures are of general scope and are designed to amend non-essential elements of this Directive by supplementing it, they must be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny provided for in Article 5a of Decision 1999/468/EC.
Justification
Reference has already been made to the parameter 'wet grip' earlier in the Commission proposal.
Road transport is one of the main causes of CO2 emissions. Annual particulate emissions as a result of tyre wear amount to roughly 6.5 kt. A further step in the rules governing particulate emissions will come into force between now and 2010. If parameters such as rolling resistance change, consideration must always also be given to the implications for tyre wear and, by extension, particulate pollution.
Amendment  5 Proposal for a directive Article 3 - paragraph 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(4) ‘technical promotional literature’ means all printed and electronic material used in the marketing of tyres or vehicles aimed at end-users or distributors which describes the specific parameters of a tyre, including technical manuals, brochures, Internet marketing, leaflets and catalogues;	(4) ‘technical promotional literature’ means all printed and electronic material used in the marketing of tyres or vehicles aimed at end-users or distributors which describes the specific parameters of a tyre or gives the sale price, including technical manuals, brochures, stock listings, Internet marketing, leaflets and catalogues;
Justification
In order to ensure that potential purchasers who do not see the tyres before fitting (for example, online orders, fleet management contracts) it is essential to provide the labelling information in other sources of promotional material. The labelling information must be provided wherever the sales price is presented.
Amendment  6 Proposal for a directive Article 3 - paragraph 5 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	5a. ‘EU tyre labelling website’ means a central online source of explanatory and supplementary information regarding each of the components of the tyre label and including a fuel savings calculator, administered by the Commission.
Justification
To establish a central source of information to clearly explain the rationale behind the labelling scheme, benefits to consumers in terms of fuel and cost savings, as well as contribution towards CO2 and traffic noise reduction.
Amendment  7 Proposal for a directive Article 3 - paragraph 5 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	5b. ‘Fuel savings calculator’ means a tool provided on the EU tyre labelling website and via explanatory leaflets and posters, to demonstrate potential average savings of fuel (as a percentage, in litres and euros) and CO2 reduction, for C1, C2 and C3 tyres.
Justification
To increase awareness of and interest in the label and to demonstrate the direct benefits to the consumer in terms of fuel consumption and money spent, as well as the environmental benefits.
Amendment  8 Proposal for a directive Article 4 - point 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(1) suppliers shall ensure that C1 and C2 tyres, which are delivered to distributors or end-users, are equipped with a sticker on the tyre tread displaying a label indicating the fuel efficiency class as set out in Annex I, Part A and the external rolling noise measured value as set out in Annex I, Part C; C1 tyre labels shall also indicate the wet grip class as set out in Annex I, Part B;	(1) suppliers shall ensure that C1 and C2 tyres delivered to points of sale are supplied with a label, displayed by any means or by a sticker on the tyre tread, indicating the fuel efficiency and wet grip information and the external rolling noise measured value as set out in Annex I, Part A, B and C respectively.
Justification
The proposed re-wording clarifies the information delivered to points of sale, ensures the most appropriate and effective means are used to inform the consumers; the references to "point of sale" is in coherence with Article 3 (3) reworded.
Amendment  9 Proposal for a directive Article 4 - paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(3) suppliers shall state the fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and the external rolling noise measured value on technical promotional literature as set out in Annex I in the order specified in Annex III;	(3) suppliers shall state the fuel efficiency class, wet grip class and the external rolling noise measured value on all technical promotional literature as set out in Annex I in the order specified in Annex III;
Justification
Point of clarification to ensure that the labelling information is provided on all technical promotional material.
Amendment  10 Proposal for a directive Article 4 - paragraph 4 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(4a) all technical promotional literature shall include a clear website link address to the EU tyre labelling website;
Justification
To raise awareness and understanding of the scheme, consumers should be directed to the EU website as a central source of explanatory and supplementary information.
Amendment  11 Proposal for a directive Article 5 - point 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(1) distributors shall ensure that tyres, at the point of sale, bear the sticker provided by suppliers in accordance with Article 4(1) in a clearly visible position;	(1) distributors shall ensure that labelling information provided by suppliers in accordance with Article 4(1) in immediate proximity in a clearly visible position is available at the point of sale;
Justification
This amendment improves the wording in reinforcing the use of the labelling information in a consistent manner.
Amendment  12 Proposal for a directive Article 6 - title
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Responsibilities of car suppliers and car distributors	Responsibilities of vehicle suppliers and vehicle distributors
	Horizontal amendment which, if adopted, applies throughout the Article.
Justification
The provisions should apply to distributors of all vehicles to be equipped with tyres subject to this Directive, including vans, trucks and buses, in order to ensure that business-to-business purchasers who represent a growing share of the tyre market are also aware of the labelling scheme.
Amendment  13 Proposal for a directive Article 8 - subparagraph - 1 (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Member States shall ensure that the competent authorities establish a system of routine and non-routine inspections of points of sale for the purposes of ensuring compliance with the requirements of this Directive.
Justification
Studies by consumer associations have identified persistent mislabelling of products and missing information. Member States should ensure via spot checks that products are correctly labelled and that the relevant information is available on all technical promotional literature, as outlined. The moulding of measured values on the tyre sidewalls will facilitate monitoring and enforcement of proper implementation.
Amendment  14 Proposal for a directive Article 8 - subparagraph 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	For the assessment and enforcement of conformity, Member States shall also refer, where applicable, to Tyre Type Approval documentation and to relevant supporting documentation to be provided by the supplier.
Justification
Existing regulations define already how the Member States have to determine fuel consumption, wet grip class and external rolling resistance values during type approval test for new vehicles. EU-established processes should be used and not questioned to avoid any additional unnecessary testing and bureaucracy. It is also important to minimize and harmonize tyre tests in order to reduce the administrative burden on producers and the costs of testing, the same testing methods should be applied as those defined in the type-approval legislation on tyres.
Amendment  15 Proposal for a directive Article 14 - subparagraph 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	By 29 October 2010 at the latest, the Commission shall present a report, accompanied by an impact analysis and, if appropriate, proposals to the European Parliament and Council for further revision of this Directive and other relevant Regulations, with regard to extension of the labelling scheme to include retreaded tyres.
Amendment  16 Proposal for a directive Annex I - part A - table - columns 1 and 2
Text proposed by the Commission
C1 tyres RRC in kg/t Energy efficiency class RRC≤6.5 A 6.6≤RRC≤7.7 B 7.8≤RRC≤9.0 C Empty D 9.1≤RRC≤10.5 E 10.6≤RRC≤12.0 F RRC≥12.1 G
Amendment
C1 tyres RRC in kg/t Energy efficiency class RRC≤6.5 A 6.6≤RRC≤7.5 B 7.6≤RRC≤8.5 C 8.6≤RRC≤9.5 D 9.6≤RRC≤10.5 E 10.6≤RRC≤11.5 F RRC≥11.6 G
Justification
To enhance understanding of the scheme and make a clear link to fuel savings, linear band widths of 1kg/t are appropriate, as this can clearly be shown to represent a fuel saving of 1.5% per band improvement, i.e. A fuel saving of 7.5% by replacing a band F model with a band A model.
The empty D band is confusing for consumers. The scheme should be continuous, rather than divide brands into two “sub schemes” which undermines the effectiveness.
Decreasing bandwidths would fail to provide consistent incentives to improve performance throughout the market (less incentive to make incremental improvements between bands E, F, G.)
Amendment  17 Proposal for a directive Annex II - part A - table - columns 1 and 2
Text proposed by the Commission
C2 tyres RRC in kg/t Energy efficiency class RRC≤5.5 A 5.6≤RRC≤6.7 B 6.8≤RRC≤8.0 C Empty D 8.1≤RRC≤9.2 E 9.3≤RRC≤10.5 F RRC≥10.6 G
Amendment
C2 tyres RRC in kg/t Energy efficiency class RRC≤5.5 A 5.6≤RRC≤6.5 B 6.6≤RRC≤7.5 C 7.6≤RRC≤8.5 D 8.6≤RRC≤9.5 E 9.6≤RRC≤10.5 F RRC≥10.6 G
Justification
To enhance understanding of the scheme and make a clear link to fuel savings, linear band widths of 1kg/t are appropriate, as this can be clearly linked to a fuel saving per band improvement.
The empty D band is confusing for consumers. The scheme should be continuous, rather than divide brands into two “sub schemes” which undermines the effectiveness.
Amendment  18 Proposal for a directive Annex I - part B - table - columns 1 and 2
Text proposed by the Commission
C1 tyres G Wet grip classes 155≤G A 140≤G≤154 B 125≤G≤139 C Empty D 110≤G≤124 E G≤109 F Empty G
Amendment
C1 tyres G Wet grip classes 155≤G A 140≤G≤154 B 125≤G≤139 C 110≤G≤124 D G≤109 E Empty F Empty G
Justification
The empty D band as proposed is confusing for consumers. It is essential that the scheme is transparent and comprehensible. The scheme shall be continuous, rather than divide brands into two “sub schemes” which undermines the effectiveness.
Amendment  19 Proposal for a directive Annex III - paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3. Suppliers must also make available on their website:	3. Suppliers must also make available on their website:
(i) an explanation of the pictograms printed on the label;	(i) a link to the EU tyre labelling website;
(ii) a statement highlighting the fact that actual fuel savings and road safety heavily depend on drivers' behaviour, in particular the following:	(ii) an explanation of the pictograms printed on the label, and the fuel efficiency calculator according to the EU tyre labelling website;
	(iii) a statement highlighting the fact that actual fuel savings and road safety depend heavily on drivers' behaviour, in particular the following:
eco-driving can significantly reduce fuel consumption;	eco-driving can significantly reduce fuel consumption;
tyre pressure should be regularly checked for higher wet grip and fuel efficiency performance characteristics;	tyre pressure should be regularly checked for higher wet grip and fuel efficiency performance characteristics;
stopping distances should always be strictly respected.	stopping distances should always be strictly respected.
(points (ii) of Commission text moved to point (iii) of the amendment)

PROCEDURE

Title	Labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency
References	COM(2008)0779 – C6-0411/2008 – 2008/0221(COD)
Committee responsible	ITRE
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	ENVI 4.12.2008
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Rebecca Harms 22.1.2009
Discussed in committee	9.2.2009
Date adopted	16.3.2009
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	27 2 2
Members present for the final vote	Adamos Adamou, Georgs Andrejevs, Pilar Ayuso, Johannes Blokland, John Bowis, Frieda Brepoels, Martin Callanan, Dorette Corbey, Chris Davies, Mojca Drčar Murko, Jill Evans, Anne Ferreira, Elisabetta Gardini, Matthias Groote, Françoise Grossetête, Gyula Hegyi, Marie Anne Isler Béguin, Linda McAvan, Péter Olajos, Miroslav Ouzký, Dagmar Roth-Behrendt, Guido Sacconi, Carl Schlyter, Richard Seeber, María Sornosa Martínez, Thomas Ulmer, Anja Weisgerber
Substitute(s) present for the final vote	Jutta Haug, Caroline Lucas, Alojz Peterle, Renate Sommer

PROCEDURE

Title	Labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency
References	COM(2008)0779 – C6-0411/2008 – 2008/0221(COD)
Date submitted to Parliament	13.11.2008
Committee responsible        Date announced in plenary	ITRE 4.12.2008
Committee(s) asked for opinion(s)        Date announced in plenary	ENVI 4.12.2008		IMCO 4.12.2008		TRAN 4.12.2008
Not delivering opinions        Date of decision	IMCO 1.12.2008		TRAN 8.12.2008
Rapporteur(s)        Date appointed	Ivo Belet 17.12.2008
Discussed in committee	21.1.2009		17.2.2009
Date adopted	31.3.2009
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	49 0 1
Members present for the final vote	Šarūnas Birutis, Jan Březina, Jorgo Chatzimarkakis, Giles Chichester, Dragoş Florin David, Pilar del Castillo Vera, Den Dover, Adam Gierek, Fiona Hall, David Hammerstein, Rebecca Harms, Erna Hennicot-Schoepges, Mary Honeyball, Ján Hudacký, Romana Jordan Cizelj, Werner Langen, Pia Elda Locatelli, Eugenijus Maldeikis, Eluned Morgan, Antonio Mussa, Angelika Niebler, Reino Paasilinna, Atanas Paparizov, Aldo Patriciello, Anni Podimata, Miloslav Ransdorf, Herbert Reul, Teresa Riera Madurell, Mechtild Rothe, Paul Rübig, Andres Tarand, Catherine Trautmann, Claude Turmes, Nikolaos Vakalis, Adina-Ioana Vălean, Alejo Vidal-Quadras
Substitute(s) present for the final vote	Alexander Alvaro, Ivo Belet, Danutė Budreikaitė, Zdzisław Kazimierz Chmielewski, Neena Gill, Robert Goebbels, Edit Herczog, Gunnar Hökmark, Toine Manders, Bernhard Rapkay, Esko Seppänen, Silvia-Adriana Ţicău, Vladimir Urutchev
Substitute(s) under Rule 178(2) present for the final vote	Victor Boştinaru
Date tabled	2.4.2009