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Can emissions be reduced by fitting Michelin Primacy 3 tyres?

You printed a letter I sent you regarding larger wheels fitted with low profile tyres increasing exhaust emissions, and pushing vehicles up into the next VED band. In your printed reply, you mentioned the new Michelin Primacy 3 tyres and how they can reduce CO2 emissions by 4g/km. I feel this may give people the impression that by fitting these tyres they can reduce their exhaust emissions and thereby qualify for a reduced VED rate if the new emissions level drops into the next lower VED band.

Asked on 5 May 2012 by MV, Thatcham

Answered by Honest John
I never intended to give that impression because it is never the case. A car stays with the CO2 certification it is born with throughout its life. But, of course, if these tyres are fitted as OEM, then they could pull the car into a lower CO2 tax bracket on the V5C. For instance, from 124g/km to 119g/km, reducing annual tax from £95 to £30.
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