California Moves to Phase Out Inefficient Replacement Tires

The California Energy Commission (CEC) voted unanimously to adopt new energy-efficiency standards that will restrict the sale of replacement tires that do not meet defined rolling-resistance limits. The rules will be implemented in two phases: the first phase, beginning in 2029, caps rolling resistance at 9.1 N/kN; the second phase, starting in 2033, lowers the cap to 7.2 N/kN. The CEC estimates the standards will eliminate roughly 70 % of the tires currently sold in the state by 2033.

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The action stems from Assembly Bill 844, passed in 2003, which directed the CEC to explore tire-efficiency regulations. After two decades of limited activity, the commission tested 537 tire models before establishing the new thresholds. The move follows broader state efforts to reduce vehicle energy consumption and greenhouse-gas emissions.

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• Gov. Gavin Newsom – publicly supportive of the rule.

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• David Hochschild – Chairman of the CEC.

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• Nancy Skinner – CEC commissioner.

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• Bret Gladfelty – Representative for Goodyear.

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• Bridgestone, Michelin – Other major manufacturers expressing regulatory concerns.

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• 2029 – Phase 1 begins; maximum rolling resistance set at 9.1 N/kN.

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• 2033 – Phase 2 begins; maximum rolling resistance reduced to 7.2 N/kN.

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• The standards are projected to remove an estimated 70 % of currently sold replacement tires by 2033.

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• CEC staff estimate average consumer savings of $79 in fuel or electricity costs over four months under Phase 1, rising to $153 within seven months under Phase 2.

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CEC Chair David Hochschild framed the policy as consumer protection, emphasizing long-term cost savings. Commissioner Nancy Skinner described the regulations as a tool to lower household energy expenses. Governor Newsom called it a “good choice” that aligns with California’s climate goals.

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Tire manufacturers, led by Goodyear’s Bret Gladfelty, argue the rules could raise purchase prices and raise unresolved technical and legal questions. Bridgestone and Michelin voiced concerns about enforcement consistency and potential competitive disadvantages for larger producers. The CEC plans to verify manufacturer data through a dedicated test laboratory and to monitor retailer compliance.

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Industry representatives contend the standards may increase the cost of replacement tires for consumers and warn that uneven enforcement could create an “uneven playing field.” Environmental groups support the rule for its anticipated air-quality and climate benefits.

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• Cost Impact – The CEC projects net savings for drivers, while Goodyear asserts the rule will raise consumer expenses. No independent cost analysis has been published.

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• Enforcement Details – Manufacturers request clearer guidance on testing protocols and penalties; the commission has only outlined a laboratory-verification approach.

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• “This ultimately is about protecting consumers,” — David Hochschild, CEC chairman

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• “I think it was a good choice.” — Gov. Gavin Newsom

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• “These regulations are a tool within our authority that can save money for every Californian,” — Commissioner Nancy Skinner

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The CEC will continue to develop testing procedures and retailer-verification processes ahead of the 2029 rollout. Stakeholder meetings are scheduled in the coming months to address industry concerns and refine enforcement mechanisms before Phase 2 takes effect in 2033.

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