Tire Wear Emissions Under Scrutiny as New Regulations Loom

Automakers race to reduce microscopic tire particles that contribute to urban air pollution

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:27am

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An abstract, colorful image created through slow-shutter panning, depicting a blurred and streaked vehicle in motion, conveying the dynamic nature of tire wear and the need for innovative solutions.As automakers race to reduce the unseen emissions from tire wear, the visual chaos of motion blur captures the urgency and complexity of this environmental challenge.Today in Orlando

The automotive industry is facing a new challenge as regulators turn their attention to the environmental impact of tire wear. Microscopic particles released from worn tires, known as tire and road wear particles (TRWP), are now under the microscope due to their contribution to urban air pollution. This has spurred tire manufacturers to innovate and develop technologies to minimize these unseen emissions, ahead of upcoming Euro 7 regulations in the EU.

Why it matters

Tire wear has long been an overlooked source of automotive emissions, but its impact on air quality is significant, especially in densely populated urban areas. As new emissions standards loom, automakers and tire companies must find ways to reduce TRWP without compromising safety or performance, striking a delicate balance that will shape the future of sustainable transportation.

The details

A complex interplay of factors, including weather, temperature, tire design, vehicle type, road surface, and driving behavior, all contribute to tire wear and the release of TRWP. Tire manufacturers like Continental and Michelin are using advanced data collection devices to better understand the relationship between particle concentration and driving dynamics, feeding this information back into their product development programs to optimize tire design and compound formulation.

  • The upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations in the EU will introduce limits on TRWP from 2028.
  • Continental's 'Online analysis of airborne tyre wear particles at the point of origin and differentiation from other sources' (OLRAP) project aims to accurately measure tire wear and the generation of airborne particles.

The players

Continental

A leading German automotive parts manufacturer that is developing technologies to measure and reduce tire wear emissions.

Michelin

A French tire company that is also investing in research and innovation to address the environmental impact of tire wear.

European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation

An industry group that provides technical guidance on tire design and performance, including the factors that contribute to tire wear.

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What they’re saying

“The tire's primary job is to 'transfer vehicle forces,' and this is achieved through friction, which inevitably leads to wear of both the tire and the road surface. A certain level of wear is unavoidable to ensure that safety-critical features remain uncompromised.”

— Continental

What’s next

As tire manufacturers continue to refine their products, we can expect to see more efficient and environmentally friendly tires that minimize the release of TRWP. This will not only help to reduce air pollution but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient transportation system.

The takeaway

The invisible car emissions triggered by tire wear is a complex issue that demands attention. By understanding the factors that contribute to tire wear and embracing innovative technologies, the automotive industry can work towards a future where the environmental impact of tire wear is minimized, leading to cleaner air and a more sustainable transportation system.