California Energy Commission Approves New Tire Efficiency Standards, Raising Concerns Among Drivers and Manufacturers
California regulators have unanimously approved a new rule that will limit the sale of replacement tires based on energy-efficiency standards, specifically targeting rolling resistance. The California Energy Commission (CEC) voted to phase out tires that do not meet these new standards, with the first phase beginning in 2029 and a stricter second phase in 2033. Commission chairman David Hochschild stated the move is a consumer protection measure designed to save drivers money on fuel and electricity costs. The CEC estimates potential savings of $79 within four months under phase one and $153 within seven months under phase two. This regulation is the first of its kind in the country and aims to ensure replacement tires are as efficient as those originally installed on new vehicles. The rule stems from a 2003 state law, AB 844, which directed the commission to study tire-efficiency regulation. 
