California has become the first state in the US to approve energy-efficiency standards for replacement tires. Beginning in 2029, most replacement tires for passenger cars and light-duty trucks will have to meet new rolling-resistance requirements. The standards will become even stricter in 2033.
The California Energy Commission estimates that the first phase of the regulations will add only about $6 to the cost of a set of tires, while saving drivers approximately $85. In the second phase, which is projected to take effect in 2033, the added cost is estimated to be around $26 per set, with savings of around $179 in gasoline costs over the tires' life.
The state projects that the regulations will eventually save drivers nearly $1 billion annually in gasoline and electricity costs, while reducing carbon emissions by approximately 2 million metric tons per year. This is equivalent to taking around 400,000 gasoline-powered cars off the road.
However, not everyone agrees with the state's projections. Goodyear has warned that around 70% of replacement tires currently sold could fail to meet the standards by 2033, citing higher upfront costs and fewer choices for consumers. The regulation does include exemptions for certain specialty tires, including some competition, off-road, and winter-performance tires.
Critics argue that the regulations are an example of overreach by the government, and that consumers should be given more information and choice when it comes to purchasing tires. They point out that the cumulative cost of government regulations can add up, and that consumers pay for all of them at once, not just one at a time.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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