California Approves Tire Efficiency Standards

California has approved replacement-tire efficiency standards that regulate rolling resistance, making it the first U.

S. state to establish such requirements. The standards are scheduled to phase in beginning in 2029, with stricter performance requirements later in the implementation period. State projections point to lower fuel and electricity use, consumer savings, and emissions reductions, while tire manufacturers and dealers have raised concerns about costs, enforcement, safety, durability, availability, and consumer choice.