Prices for winter tyres have risen by an average of 5-8% this cold season compared with the same period in 2024, but during the peak period (November-December) rates could increase by up to 15%, according to a specialist analysis published on Monday.
Data compiled by AutoEco, an online store specialising in the sale of car parts and accessories for the Romanian market, a registered brand of Motoreco Parts SRL, show that demand for winter tyres began almost a month earlier than last year, driven by low temperatures since September and better planning of purchases.
In this context, specialists note a return to more preventive behaviour among drivers, with an increasing number of Romanians buying tyres for the cold season before November. Currently, around 65% of orders in this period are for winter tyres, with the remainder for all-season tyres. The most sought-after sizes are for popular car models such as the Dacia Logan, Volkswagen Golf, and Ford Focus, as well as for compact SUVs.
"Customers are paying more attention to safety and the real costs of using their cars in winter. A dedicated winter tyre provides better grip on wet or cold roads and can reduce braking distance by up to 10 metres at 50 km/h compared with a summer tyre. At the same time, planning purchases outside the peak season can save up to 200 lei per set and eliminates the risk of not finding the desired size. This change in behaviour is particularly visible among customers who fit their cars before temperatures consistently fall below 7 degrees Celsius. We estimate a 20-25% increase in winter tyre sales this season, reflecting a return to rational, prevention-oriented purchasing," said Costin Stan, CEO of AutoEco, in a press release sent to Agerpres on Monday.
According to the source, compared with last season, prices for winter tyres have risen by an average of 5-8%, with the largest increases recorded for premium brands such as Michelin, Continental, and Bridgestone, driven by higher production and transport costs. At the same time, the mid-range and economy segments, which include brands such as Kumho, Debica, Hankook, Minerva, and Sailun, saw moderate increases of 2-3%.
Comentează