The Real Difference Between Chinese And Premium Tyres

A few years ago, the UAE was dominated by a handful of tire brands. Today, it is no longer the case. If you check our tyre brands page, you will see numerous names. We keep updating the page with new brands every other day. When looking at our tire brands page, you might see some unfamiliar names. Some of them, including Pearly, PallyKing, and Habilead, are Chinese tire brands.

Should We Stay Away from Chinese Tire Brands?

PitStopArabia knows that people have a bad perception of Chinese tires. They feel that they offer inferior quality, poor performance, and lack safety features seen in well-established tire brands like Yokohama or Michelin. However, this perception is far from the truth. Chinese tire brands are now starting to dominate the world tire market.

It would not be possible if Chinese tires lack quality, performance, or safety. Then why do people still perceive them as inferior to premium brands? Our research shows that the primary reason is the pricing. Chinese branded tires cost less than premium tyres. For example, the Pearly Grand Z5 and Bridgestone Turanza T005 are similar tires.

Yet, the price difference is huge. Research shows that people equate higher prices with better quality. But there is no evidence in the tire industry or elsewhere to prove this point. It would not be wrong to say that it is merely a marketing gimmick designed to charge more money from the customers.

Why Do Chinese Tire Cost Less?

Several reasons explain the cost differences between Chinese and premium tires.

One is the manufacturing location. Many premium brands have their factories set up in Europe, the USA, and other developed regions. The wages are higher in these regions than in the rest of the world. The high wages increase the cost of production, which the manufacturer passes on to the customer.

In contrast, most Chinese brands have set up their manufacturing in China, where wages are low. Hence, the cost of production is comparatively less than premium brands. The Chinese tire manufacturers pass these savings onto the customers instead of trying to maximize their profits.

Another reason is the raw materials. China is a vast country with abundant natural resources, including those used in tire manufacturing. As Chinese brands do not need to import raw materials at the same level as others, they save considerable money. Again, it passes the savings onto the customers.

Do Chinese Brands Compromise Safety Standards?

The answer is no. Any Chinese tires sold in the UAE meet the requirements set by the relevant authorities. So far, there is no reported case of any Chinese brand violating the standards. We believe that there won't be any case either because Chinese companies are committed to best practices and utilizing cutting-edge tire manufacturing technologies. Lastly, all products undergo rigorous testing to ensure that it is roadworthy. Hence, we can safely conclude that Chinese tires offer the same safety as premium tires.

Chinese Tires vs Premium Brands – Performance & Durability

When it comes to performance and durability, premium brands are at an advantage. Chinese tire brands are still new compared with premium brands. They are not spending the same amount on research and development nor have access to the same level of technologies. Thus, premium brands edge out the Chinese branded tires in these two categories.

However, it is not expected to last. The reason is that the Chinese tyre industry is increasing its focus on R&D and modernization. Soon, we will see Chinese manufacturers use the same technologies as premium brands, if not better. Another encouraging bit of news is that China is adopting the same tire standards as the rest of the world. It will help ensure standardization across the global tire industry and help allay customer fears regarding Chinese tyre brands.

Conclusion – Should We Buy Chinese Tyres?

The answer is yes. Do not hesitate to buy Chinese tires as we find them offer similar value as premium ones. Another encouraging bit of news is the customer response. Our customers who have purchased Chinese branded tires have not reported any more complaints than those that buy premium tires. It shows that Chinese tires are worth your money. If you are not sure which Chinese tire is best for you, please contact us.