California has approved new energy efficiency standards for replacement tires, with the first phase of the rules set to take effect in 2029. Photo by Benjamin Brunner / Unsplash

California became the first state in the nation to regulate replacement tire efficiency when the California Energy Commission unanimously approved new rules that will phase out the sale of tires that don’t meet certain energy efficiency standards.

Business Journal readers aren’t buying the rationale.

More than 80% of respondents said they do not support the new rules, citing concerns about rising costs for consumers. Just 12% said the long-term energy efficiency savings are worth it, while 7% were unsure. Sixty-eight votes were counted.

The CEC claims consumers could save up to $153 in fuel costs within seven months under the rules’ second phase. Tire manufacturers, including Goodyear, dispute that, warning price increases could run into the hundreds of dollars per tire. The first phase of the rules takes effect in 2029.

Poll results

 

No, it will raise costs for consumers: 81%

 

Yes, energy efficiency savings are worth it: 12%

 

Unsure: 7%