The Influence of Road Surface Texture on Tire Rolling Resistance

Tire rolling resistance losses can be significantly influenced by road surface texture. Data obtained from laboratory tire dynamometer tests and outdoor tests conducted on various paved public type roads indicates that tire rolling resistance losses increase as road surface texture increases. Some tires are more sensitive to surface texture than others, and relative tire comparisons may depend upon the test surface used. Developments in road surface texture may be an additional approach to the question of tire rolling resistance. Other tire performance areas like noise and traction are also affected by surface texture; therefore, future road surface developments should be based on a consideration of the interaction between surface texture and tire performance.