Updated
Updated · sema.org · Aug 11
California Energy Commission Advances Tire Rules Toward Aug. 17 Adoption
Updated
Updated · sema.org · Aug 11

California Energy Commission Advances Tire Rules Toward Aug. 17 Adoption

2 articles · Updated · sema.org · Aug 11

Summary

  • Aug. 17 is the next key date for California’s replacement-tire efficiency rules after the Energy Commission put the proposal on its business-meeting agenda, moving it closer to final adoption.
  • July revisions delayed implementation and widened exemptions for some specialty tires, including competition tires, qualifying winter tires and certain large off-road tires, after months of industry opposition.
  • SEMA says the proposal still risks higher tire prices and fewer affordable replacement options in California, and argues the competition-tire exemption remains too narrow for some motorsports products.
  • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. PDT on Aug. 17, the commission will take remote public participation by Zoom as aftermarket businesses, manufacturers, retailers and enthusiasts press for further changes before approval.

Insights

Will the new tire efficiency rules accidentally outlaw specialized motorsports tires, or is the aftermarket industry simply overreacting?
Could California's push for eco-friendly tires end up costing everyday drivers more upfront than they save at the pump?
If efficient tires save drivers a billion dollars annually, why are major automotive groups fighting so hard to stop the mandate?