All truck, van, and SUV owners should know what LT means. This will help them to choose and buy appropriate types of tires for their vehicles. Most of them have no idea what it is.
This post will tell you what it stands for and how important it is. Check the guide and find out why it is important and why every driver should pay attention to it.
What Do the Characters Stand For?
Tires, like many other products, are marked with acronyms. LT denotes the category of vehicles, for which tires with this marking are intended (light trucks). The term embraces a number of vehicle types, including SUVs, vans, and heavy-duty pickup trucks. So if you own such a vehicle, it is advisable for you to buy tires with the LT symbol.
In turn, there are three groups of LT tires, which are intended for different uses:
Flotation: these tires are intended for use in terrain types that are close to extreme (sand, waterlogged ground, gravel, etc.) They are the biggest and the widest of all LT categories, as they are intended for transportation of heavy and large cargos.
Wide base: these are intended for vehicles with trailers that transport weighty goods. These are great for wheels with rims measuring 16.5 inches in diameter or more.
Numeric: these are intended for the transportation of the most common types of cargo. The choice of tires within this category depends on the weight of a particular vehicle.
Uses of the two tire types: what are the differences?
There are other metrics as well, which tire manufacturers use to categorize their products. P-metrics indicate that tires are intended for passenger vehicles. Many vehicle owners are not aware of that either.
Tires with P-metrics boast smooth and energy-efficient driving: vehicles show good speed and traction without forcing drivers to press hard on the throttle. It should be noted, however, that this applies to vehicles that travel on smooth highways and city roads. If you travel on muddy terrains a lot and carry cargo on a regular basis, LT tires will do it just right for you.
LT tires are also known for high performance in vehicles with full tanks. They demonstrate high load capacity and minimal sway thanks to reinforced inner walls and underside. Thick rubber and a steel belt ensure a stable ride with a full tank and some heavy-weight cargo. Manufacturers use innovative solutions to ensure their tires’ performance and longevity.
The conclusion is that the two tire types are designed to do well in specific situations. Both are great in the spheres they are made for. When choosing tires, please, figure out what tire type is better for your vehicle. This will help you save a lot of money and time!