Radical California Energy Commissioner to Restrict Car Tires Because They Can’t Ban Cars

Live updates

1. 27d ago

   California implements first state rules on tire efficiency

   California regulators passed rules limiting the types of replacement tires drivers can purchase to improve fuel efficiency. This makes California the first state to regulate tire rolling resistance, often described as the squish of the tire. The measures aim to reduce fuel consumption regardless of a vehicle's overall efficiency. Proponents claim the new efficiency standards could save drivers $1B a year in costs.

   Why it matters

   Tires impact fuel economy through rolling resistance. By restricting low-efficiency replacements, the state attempts to lower emissions and costs without mandating new vehicle purchases.

   What is confirmed

   • California is the first state to regulate the squish of car tires.
   • California regulators passed rules limiting what replacement tires drivers can purchase.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The new tire efficiency rules could save drivers $1B a year.
   • The Energy Commissioner restricted tires because the state cannot ban cars.

   What to watch next

   • Legal challenges to the replacement tire restrictions
   • Data on actual driver savings after implementation
   Sources used for this update (5)

   1. grist.org — California’s new tire efficiency rules could save drivers $1B a year
   2. Los Angeles Times — Your car may not be fuel efficient, but your tires have to be now
   3. foxbusiness.com — California regulators pass rules limiting what replacement tires drivers can purchase
   4. The New York Times — California Becomes First State to Regulate the Squish of Car Tires
   5. California Globe — Radical California Energy Commissioner to Restrict Car Tires Because They Can’t Ban Cars
   confidence 80%