Light Truck & Commercial Tyres

Light truck tyres (LT) and commercial tyres both serve commercial vehicles, but they differ in construction and intended use. Light truck tyres are designed for utes, vans and lighter commercial vehicles and often come in 10PR (10 ply) or 8PR ratings for improved load capacity while still giving a quieter ride and better fuel efficiency than heavy-duty truck tyres. Commercial tyres cover a wider commercial range, including heavy-duty tyres engineered to withstand tougher conditions and higher load demands. LT tyres prioritise a balance of long tread life, advanced tread design, sipes for wet grip and a sidewall suited to mixed on/off-road use.

Yes - both Light Truck (LT) and Commercial tyres are legal for use on New Zealand roads and will pass a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) as long as they meet standard tyre requirements.

Check your vehicle’s tyre placard or owner’s manual for the recommended tyre size and load capacity. Load capacity can be shown either as a load index number (e.g. 121R, 110R) or a ply rating (such as 10PR or 12PR). If your ute or van regularly carries heavy payloads, tools, or stock, consider Light Truck (LT) tyres with a higher load index or stronger 10PR/12PR construction for improved durability and stability. If you mainly drive on sealed roads and want a quieter ride with better fuel efficiency, some commercial-style patterns provide a good balance between load capacity, long wear, and comfort.

Yes, you can fit LT (Light Truck) tyres in place of passenger tyres as long as they meet or exceed your vehicle’s required load rating, speed rating, and are compatible with the wheel size. LT tyres are built with stronger construction and reinforced sidewalls, giving higher load capacity and improved durability. This makes them a popular choice for vehicles that carry tools, equipment, or heavy loads. However, because they are heavier duty, LT tyres may ride firmer and can slightly affect fuel economy compared with passenger tyres. Many drivers choose them for the added strength and longer tread life, especially for work use or mixed road conditions.

Before purchasing LT or commercial tyres online, make sure the tyre size matches your vehicle and that the load index and speed rating meet or exceed the manufacturer’s requirements (found on the tyre placard or owner’s manual). The tyres should also match the load rating and ply rating of any existing tyres on the same axle. If your vehicle carries heavy loads, consider tyres with a higher ply rating (such as 10PR or 12PR).