Which? tested the UK’s top two selling sizes of tyre – the 195/65R15V and 175/65R14T, sizes commonly fitted to strong selling vehicles such as the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Auris and Mazda 3.
Which? Magazine carried out the tyre tests to highlight that, with forward planning and product knowledge, buying tyres doesn’t have to be an emergency purchase. The publication tested the tyres in seven situations including dry braking, dry handling, wet braking, wet grip on the straight and on a bend, wear, and noise eco rating, generating an overall performance percentage. Fulda is pleased with the results its 195/65R15V tyre achieved during the test – the Fulda EcoControl’s overall score of 63% was a considerable 43% higher than that of the lowest performing tyre. Fulda performed well in dry braking and wet grip in corners, ranking higher than the overall test winner.
“The success of Fulda’s EcoControl is due to the new asymmetric design and innovative silica tread compound which maximises grip, reduces fuel consumption and increases mileage performance significantly,” stated Fulda communications specialist Kate Rock.
Which? also tested tyre mileage performance by subjecting the tyres to a 5,000 mile endurance test. This is, comments Fulda, the equivalent to driving from London to Las Vegas. Fulda scored highly in the test, which the tyremaker believes confirms that its flatter tyre contour and increased tread width, which reduces pressure peaks, indeed helps the EcoControl live up to its name.
The tyre was also given the Which? award for Exceptional Value. “Finishing in the top three, the Fulda EcoControl matches the top premium brands for grip and gave excellent all-round performance at a fantastic guide price” the magazine stated. The Fulda EcoControl is available in 25 sizes, from 13 to 15 inches, and provides a varied selection of load allowances. (Tyres & Accessories/Staffordshire, U.K.)
