When it comes to tires with higher speed ratings, 2013 was a year of growth across the board, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA).
In the domestic replacement segment, H-rated tire shipments were up 6.3%, while V-rated shipments were up 10%. Tires Z-rated and higher were up 3%. Here is the breakdown of the passenger tire shipments by speed rating, in millions (2012 shipments are in parentheses).
H-rated: 33.8 (31.8)
V-rated: 16.4 (14.9)
Z, Y- and W-rated: 13.5 (13.1).
In the original equipment segment, H-rated tire shipments were up 18.8%, while V-rated shipments were up 18.6%. Tires Z-rated and higher were up 70%.
The RMA, through its Market Information Services department, released its preliminary results on Feb. 14. For more information on the RMA's latest numbers, check out these links: