Load Index & Speedy Symbols
On the sidewall of all tyres you can find the Load Index and Speed Symbol for that tyre for example 112 H
Load Index
The load rating which represented by the numerical value is related to the maximum weight that the tyre can carry. So in this case 112 would refer to a load capacity of 1120kg, with most passenger vehicles, load indexes range from 62 to 126.
| Load index | Max load (kg) |
|---|---|
| 81 | 462 |
| 82 | 475 |
| 85 | 515 |
| 86 | 530 |
| 87 | 545 |
| 90 | 600 |
| 92 | 630 |
| 95 | 690 |
| 96 | 710 |
In all instances the tyres load index must meet or exceed the value displayed on the vehicles placard.
Speed Symbol
The speed category symbol, for example 'H', indicates the maximum speed at which the tyre can carry a load corresponding to its load index. So in this case, 'H' would refer to a maximum speed of 210 km/hour.
See the chart below for a list of speed symbols and their applicable values.
| Speed symbol | Maximum speed (km/h) |
|---|---|
| N | 140 |
| P | 150 |
| Q | 160 |
| R | 170 |
| S | 180 |
| T | 190 |
| U | 200 |
| H | 210 |
| V | 240 |
| Z | 240 |
| W | 270 |
| Y | 300 |
*A tyre with ZR symbols have a speed capability of over 240km/h. Tyrepower can always consult with the tyre manufacturers to understand actual speed capabilities.
The legal speed symbol requirements vary by state, please check.
Ply Rating
Ply ratings identify the load carrying capacities of a tyre in terms of plies. Ply rating originally referred to the number of cotton layers used to strengthen a tyre's casing. Today, when tyres are labelled 10-ply for example, they are no longer actually constructed of 10 individual layers of cotton, but they do offer the equivalent strength. Over time, steel ply and radial construction replaced cotton, leading to a new distinction: Load Range. Load Range identifies the maximum amount of weight that can be placed on a tyre horizontally, which varies depending on tyre size and inflations limits.