California regulators have approved new rules that will phase out the sale of replacement tires that do not meet the state's energy-efficiency standards. The California Energy Commission (CEC) unanimously passed the regulations on Monday, which target a tire's rolling resistance—the energy a tire uses to maintain motion. Lower rolling resistance leads to improved fuel economy for gasoline vehicles and extended range for electric vehicles.
The new standards will be implemented in two phases. The first phase, beginning in 2029, will require replacement tires to have a maximum rolling-resistance level of 9.1 newtons per kilonewton. This threshold will be further reduced to 7.2 newtons per kilonewton in 2033.
CEC officials estimate that these regulations will make replacement tires at least as energy-efficient as those originally equipped on new vehicles. The commission projects that drivers could save an average of $79 in fuel costs within the first four months of the initial phase and approximately $153 within seven months under the second phase. "These regulations are a tool within our authority that can save money for every Californian," stated Commissioner Nancy Skinner.
However, the tire manufacturing industry has voiced significant opposition. Representatives from Goodyear warned that the regulations could increase costs, with potential price hikes ranging from an average of $6.50 per tire under the second phase to several hundred dollars, according to company estimates. Bret Gladfelty of Goodyear also indicated that the rules might eliminate an estimated 70% of tires currently sold in California by 2033. Manufacturers like Bridgestone and Michelin have also expressed concerns about creating an uneven market playing field, depending on the enforcement of the regulations.
The CEC stated that commission staff will utilize laboratory testing to verify manufacturer data and will conduct checks with retailers to ensure compliance. The new rules originate from Assembly Bill 844, a 2003 state law that mandated the CEC to establish tire-efficiency standards. California is the first state in the nation to implement such measures.