California Energy Commission adopts phased rollout of energy-efficient replacement tire standards

California regulators approved new rules that will limit the sale of replacement tires that fail to meet specified energy-efficiency standards. In a unanimous vote, the California Energy Commission adopted a two-phase program that will restrict rolling-resistance levels to a maximum of 9.1 newtons per kilonewton (N/kN) beginning in 2029 and tighten the limit to 7.2 N/kN in 2033. The standards were developed after testing 537 tire models and are intended to keep replacement tires at least as efficient as the original equipment on new vehicles.

"This ultimately is about protecting consumers," said David Hochschild, chair of the commission.

"These regulations are a tool within our authority that can save money for every Californian," added Commissioner Nancy Skinner.

The commission estimates that Californians could save roughly $79 in fuel or electricity costs within four months under the first phase and about $153 within seven months under the second phase. Tire manufacturers, including Goodyear, Bridgestone and Michelin, expressed concerns that the rules could raise prices and create enforcement challenges. Goodyear’s representative warned that price increases could reach several hundred dollars per tire, contrary to the commission’s estimate of a $6.50 average rise in phase two.

The rules contain several exemptions, such as tires for motorsports, winter-type snow tires, used and retreaded tires, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, temporary spares, small-rim tires, limited-production models, emergency-vehicle tires, high-load-index tires, low-speed tires and space-saver tires. Environmental groups supported the measures, citing potential air-quality improvements.

The action fulfills a provision of the 2003 AB 844 law that directed the commission to explore tire-efficiency regulations. The commission noted it will use a test laboratory and retailer checks to verify manufacturers’ data and enforce compliance.