Load Range E tires are heavy-duty tire models built with reinforced internal construction to handle higher air pressures and heavier loads. E range tires typically support up to 80 psi (550 kPa) and carry a maximum load of about 3,000–3,750 lbs (1,360–1,700 kg) per tire, depending on the tire’s specific size. These tires are commonly used on 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickup trucks, SUVs, and vans that tow or haul substantial weight.
This article focuses in particular on the tire E load rating, also known as the load range E, which is a crucial indicator of the tire's ability to support the extra load.
What Are Load Range E Tires?
Load range E is part of the Tire Load Range System and indicates the tire's maximum load-carrying capacity and inflation pressure. E Load Range tires are designed for heavy-duty applications, such as tow trucks, delivery trucks, stake beds, and school buses. They are typically fitted to ¾-ton and 1-ton pickups, large SUVs, and vans that tow or haul heavy loads.
Load Range E Tires: PSI and Weight Capacity
Load Range E tires generally can handle up to 3,042-3,640 lbs per tire at a maximum pressure of 80 psi (550 kPa) and have a 10-ply rating equivalent.
Key Specs:
- Max Air Pressure: 80 psi (550 kPa)
- Max Load Capacity: 3,000–3,750 lbs (1,360–1,700 kg) per tire
- Ply Rating Equivalent: 10-ply (reinforced construction)
- Ideal For: Heavy-duty pickups, large SUVs, vans, and towing vehicles
- Typical Tire Size Range: LT245/75R16 – LT275/70R18
| E Load Tires | Specifications |
| Applications | Heavy-duty applications |
| Vehicle Types | Vehicles weighting ≈ 3/4tons- 1 ton: tow trucks, delivery trucks, school buses |
| Ply rating | 10-ply structure |
Load Range E Tire vs Load Range F
Load Range E tires support up to 3,640 lbs per tire at 80 psi, while Load Range F tires support up to 4,480 lbs per tire at 95 psi. This means that Load range F tires carry about 5- 10% more weight than E range tires.
E Rated Tires: Features and Benefits
The advantages of E Rated tires include superior durability, enhanced stability, resistance to high pressure, and tread longevity.
- Superior durability: the construction of E range tires includes highly robust and resistant internal materials, making them reliable in handling heavy loads.
- Enhanced stability: The stiff construction of load range E tires ensures dependable steadiness when towing and transporting heavy loads.
- Resistance to high pressure: An E rated tire can firmly resist a pressure of up to 80 PSI versus a typical passenger tire with a ≈ 40 PSI in comparison. This translates into a high resistance, allowing to carry heavy loads;
- Tread longevity: Tire manufacturers craft E-rated products using long-lasting compounds. At the same time, they are durable enough to withstand the demands of heavy-duty use. Discover good examples of E-rated tires in our Ground Hawg Tires & Alternatives article.
Comparing Load Range E to D, F Tire Load Ranges
The E tire range handles 3,042 - 3,640 lbs per tire at a maximum load pressure of 80 PSI, compared to the D rating (2,540 - 3,040 lbs/65 PSI) and F rating (3,750 - 4,480 lbs/95 PSI). Accordingly, an E-rated tire resists extra load better than those in classes C or D, making it more suitable for more demanding applications.
| Load Range | Max Load Per Tire | Applications | Ply Rating | Max Load Pressure |
| B | ≈ 990 lbs | 4 | 35 PSI | |
| C | 1,820 - 2,470 lbs | 1/2-ton trucks, vans | 6 | 50 PSI |
| D | 2,540 - 3,040 lbs | 3/4-ton trucks | 8 | 65 PSI |
| E | 3,042 - 3,640 lbs | 3/4-ton and 1-ton trucks | 10 | 80 PSI |
| F | 3,750 - 4,480 lbs | Heavy-duty commercial | 12 | 95 PSI |
Comparison of Load range E tire PSI to other tire load ranges
Range E Tires: FAQs
What are the disadvantages of Load Range E tires?
Compared to standard P-metric or XL tires, Load Range E tires are about 10–15 lbs heavier each and have stiffer sidewalls due to extra plies. This added rigidity reduces ride comfort (you’ll feel bumps more) and can lower fuel efficiency by about 1-2 MPG. On vehicles not designed for E-rated tires, the added weight and stiffness can also cause faster suspension wear.
Is Load Range E or XL better?
Load Range E (LT) tires handle up to ≈3,640 lbs at 80 psi and are ideal for trucks towing heavy trailers or hauling loads. XL (Extra Load) tires handle ≈1,600-1,900 lbs at 41-50 psi and suit SUVs, crossovers, or sedans that need a stronger tire without sacrificing comfort or fuel economy. Neither is better overall; it depends on vehicle type and purpose.
How fast can you drive on E-rated tires?
Most Load Range E tires have R or S ratings, meaning safe operation up to 106–112 mph (170–180 km/h). However, because E tires are designed for heavy loads, high-speed driving when underinflated or overloaded can cause excess heat and structural damage even below those limits. Tire load range doesn’t define speed—the speed rating does.
Choose Tires With The Right Load Rating with NeoTires
Understanding how tire load rating affects performance and safety is essential for any driver. At NeoTires, we can guide you to make informed decisions about the correct load rating for your preferences.
Explore our catalog of tires with different load ratings for various needs, from easy drives on highways to heavy-duty tasks. Contact us for professional assistance in making the right decision and enjoying an upgraded driving experience.
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