The test bodies are independent, so they have no reason to favor any one brand of tyre over another. The results of these rigorous tests are a good indicator of the performance you can expect. They can help you choose a tyre in your price range that meets your driving needs.

Testers compare the performance of tyres within a given performance category and price range. They choose around 15 different characteristics, and assess each one under a range of conditions. They commonly test traction, aquaplaning resistance, wet and dry handling, and wet, dry and winter braking.

ÖAMTC (Der Österreichische Automobil-, Motorrad- und Touring Club): This not-for-profit body was established in 1896 as the Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club.

Stiftung Warentest: This German-based foundation provides unbiased advice on a wide range of products, rating each on a scale from 0.5 (very good) to 5.5 (unsatisfactory). Their marking system has a significant influence on consumer purchases all across Europe.

You’ll see references on the Fulda site to TÜV, a technical inspection body based in Germany. They are a neutral organization dedicated to keeping technologies safe and protecting people and the environment. For more than 140 years, they have been testing products from aerospace to medical equipment.

The safety criteria set out by TÜV are among the strictest in the world. Their safety testing and compliance expertise is so important that every German-registered vehicle must have a certification from TÜV or equivalent before it can be used on a public road.

This independent body in Lapland, Finland tests tyres and cars under winter conditions.