From the nimble agility of a motorcycle to the robust heft of a heavy-duty truck, the weight spectrum of vehicles we see on the road is vast. Motorcycles, designed for individual transport, are significantly lighter than the average car, while SUVs bridge the gap with increased passenger and cargo capacity. Then, there's the world of heavy vehicles like buses and trucks, built to haul massive payloads, putting an entirely different level of demand on their components. This dramatic difference in weight across vehicle classes has a direct impact on every aspect of their design, especially when it comes to tyres.

That’s where the tyre load index comes in, defining the weight and speed category for the tyres we buy. In today’s post we explore the relationship between tyre weight index and your vehicles. So, let’s dive in.

Definition

In simple words, the tyre load index is a number that tells you the maximum weight a single tyre can safely carry when it's properly inflated. Think of it like a weight limit for each of your tyres. The higher the number, the more weight the tyre can handle.

Tyre load index is a crucial part of the information stamped on your tyre's sidewall and is essential for ensuring safe and efficient vehicle operation. This numerical code corresponds to a standardised weight in kilograms (or sometimes pounds). Tyre companies use rigorous testing and engineering to determine the maximum load a tyre can safely bear at its specified maximum inflation pressure.

Example

For example, let's consider tyre from Apollo Tyres with the marking "205/55 R16 91V”.

In this code, the "91" is the load index. This "91" doesn’t directly mean 91 kilograms. Instead, it corresponds to a specific weight. If you consult a standard tyre load index chart (which is readily available online and in tyre shops), you'll find that a load index of 91 actually indicates a maximum load capacity of 615 kilograms per tyre.

So, this Apollo tyre, with a load index of 91, is designed to safely carry 615 kilograms when properly inflated. If your vehicle has four of these tyres, the combined load capacity at this rating would be 2460 kilograms, and the total weight of the vehicle with the load being distributed amongst the four tyres should not exceed that figure.

This example highlights the importance of checking the load index and ensuring that your tyres are suitable for the weight of your vehicle and the loads you plan to carry.

Tyre Load Index Chart

The tyre load index is a globally standardised system. The values are consistent worldwide, though they may be presented slightly differently on some charts. Here's a representative list of common load indices and their corresponding load capacities in kilograms, which would apply to tyres sold in India (and elsewhere).

How to use the chart?

• Find your Load Index: Look at the sidewall of your tyre. The load index is usually a two or three digit number (like '88', '91', or '102').

• Match on the Chart: Find the matching Load Index on the left side of the chart.

• Read the Load Capacity: The value on the right side is the maximum weight in kilograms that your single tyre can safely carry when properly inflated.

• Calculate Vehicle Capacity: Multiply the single-tyre capacity by the number of tyres on your vehicle to get the total combined load rating of your tyres. Remember, this value should be higher than the maximum operating weight of the vehicle.

Also read :- Understanding and Finding Your Car Tyre Size

Get more help

Remember, choosing the wrong tyres can lead to premature wear, handling issues, and potentially dangerous situations on the road. For personalised assistance in selecting the correct tyres for your specific car or SUV, we encourage you to visit an Apollo Tyres shop near your location, where our expert technicians can guide you through the process and ensure you get the perfect fit for your needs.

Similarly, if you're a fleet owner or operator in need of durable, reliable tyres for your trucks and buses, please consult us at Apollo Tyres CV (Commercial Vehicle) zones, where we have specialised teams dedicated to recommending the ideal tyres for your heavy-duty transport requirements. With Apollo Tyres, you can be confident that you're making an informed choice that prioritises safety and performance for every journey.

Or you can always call our helpline at 1800 212 7070.