Hybrid cars are sent from the manufacturer with tires that perform well in all conditions, have decreased road resistance, and contribute to fuel efficiency. This type of tire is known as a low-rolling resistance tire. When the time comes to replace the tires on your hybrid, stay with this type of tire. Not only do the gas/electric engines in your hybrid contribute to fuel economy, but the low-rolling resistance tires do, as well. All major tire manufacturers are involved in the development of various types of low-rolling resistance tires.

Low-rolling resistance tires roll smoothly on the road, eliminating resistance and drag. This decreases the energy needed to accelerate the vehicle, meaning more fuel economy for the car. This makes for a cleaner running vehicle, producing less emission than a traditional rubber tire. Energy is used by the heat generated by the rolling tires. The heat builds up along the sidewall of the tire, between the roadway and the tire, and along the rim. The low-rolling tire produces less heat and friction, causing a lower need for energy. These innovative tires are even more efficient with the aerodynamic design of hybrid cars. They are efficient and safe in all weather or road conditions.

Tire manufactures use a composite of rubber particles to produce a more energy efficient, stiff low-rolling tire. The tread is also an important element in reducing road resistance, especially in a sandy roadway. Each manufacturer has its own tread design, but the final product is the same; a lighter, stronger, less deforming tire. Rather than the high PSI's in traditional tires, the low-rolling tires use little air pressure. Many of the tire models can travel for up to fifty miles without full pressure. This is very convenient if the tire is punctured, giving the driver time to find a repair station.

Fuel economy is the most positive advantage about low-rolling tires. Each hybrid vehicle comes equipped with these tires, making the vehicle more environmentally friendly. The MPG will have the driver smiling all the way to the gas pump. The hybrid car and low-rolling resistance tires can save up to 6% gas consumption. The tires are more expensive than regular tires, but the money saved on gas will pay for the low-rolling tires and then some. The other advantage to these tires is the benefit to the environment, reducing pollution and waste of natural resources.

This does not mean that the low-rolling resistance tires are perfect. Some drivers do not feel the tires hold the road very well. More aggressive drivers may want to stay with regular sized, softer tires that hang onto the road. Each person should decide what is more important to them as far as choosing a tire: handling the road better, speed, fuel economy, or pollution control.

The popularity of low-rolling resistance tires is increasing as consumers become more aware of the money that can be saved on gas. In fact, legislation has been passed in California requiring any tire replacements bought in the state must be as efficient as newly developed tires. Most of these include low-rolling resistance tires. Other states are also considering adopting a similar legislation.