European Drivers Embrace All-Season Tires, Ipsos Survey Finds
An Ipsos survey commissioned by the Goodyear Group reveals that European drivers are increasingly positive about all-season tires, particularly in milder winter conditions. The study, which surveyed participants across seven European countries, coincides with the launch of Dunlop’s next-generation All Season 2 tire.
The survey indicates that many drivers view all-season and winter tires as delivering similar performance in key areas such as safety, comfort, and mileage. Respondents noted that all-season tires provide a satisfactory balance between the summer and winter tire categories, enabling drivers to navigate a wide array of weather conditions without the need for frequent tire changes.
Despite the rising acceptance of all-season tires, nearly two-thirds of respondents still believe that winter tires outperform their all-season counterparts in terms of grip and braking on snowy and icy roads. Dunlop recommends that drivers facing severe winter conditions should opt for dedicated winter tires. However, the survey also highlights the growing appreciation for all-season tires’ performance in other categories. For instance, 34% of drivers consider all-season tires to offer comparable grip and braking on wet roads to winter tires, while 68% feel they perform equally well or better on dry roads.
The survey revealed that more than a third of respondents believe that all-season tires offer similar safety and comfort levels as winter tires, with 31% rating their mileage as “equally good.” This shift in perception is driving increased interest in all-season options, particularly as the segment is expected to grow by approximately 6.7% annually from 2024 to 2029.
Many drivers find the prospect of avoiding seasonal tire changes appealing. While the majority of respondents reported neutral or slightly positive experiences with tire changes, one in four admitted to negative experiences, which could influence their decision towards all-season tires. The convenience of all-season tires can save drivers both time and money, as they eliminate the need for replacement and storage during seasonal transitions.
Technological advancements are also contributing to the all-season tire segment’s growth. Dunlop’s All Season 2 tire, which took over 12,500 hours of research and development, has garnered praise for its innovative features. The tire achieved recognition in a recent Auto Bild test, earning titles like “Eco-Master” and “best” in mileage performance.
Sonia Leneveu, Director of Marketing Consumer EMEA at Goodyear, stated: “The new Dunlop All Season 2 tire is dedicated to consumers who seek peace of mind through tried and tested tires, offering confidence to enjoy the drive.” She emphasised that the tire provides a reliable alternative for drivers in milder winter regions, reflecting Dunlop’s long-standing commitment to quality over its 130-year history.
The Dunlop All Season 2 is designed with advanced technology, featuring 3D Blading for enhanced traction on snow, an optimised carcass shape for improved handling, and a refined footprint for uniform pressure distribution and long-lasting tread wear. The new tire will be available in 59 SKUs, ranging from 14 to 19 inches, gradually rolling out throughout 2024, further expanding options for European drivers seeking versatile and dependable tire solutions.