The Useless Tire Regulation Nobody Asked For
This week we’re talking tires—and no, not just the dangerously tempting Avants member deals you should be taking advantage of!
California is rolling out a new tire efficiency regulation that’s already stirring up debate across the auto world. On paper, it’s about improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. In reality, it could significantly reshape what tires you can actually buy and make you buy more of them. A lot more.
The rule centers around rolling resistance—basically how much energy your tires waste as they roll down the road. Under the proposed program, replacement tires sold in California will need to meet stricter efficiency standards, similar to the low rolling resistance tires that come on new cars from the factory.
Here’s where it gets interesting:
Tires that don’t meet the standard may no longer be legal to sell in the state.
The regulation is expected to roll out in phases starting around January 1, 2028.
It applies to most passenger vehicle and light truck replacement tires, with some exemptions (like certain off-road or low-volume tires).
The goal is improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, with "projected" cost savings for drivers over time (hint: that won't happen).
Critics argue this could reduce tire choice, especially for enthusiasts, and potentially push the market toward a narrower set of approved options. Some also raise concerns about cost, availability, and how these efficiency-focused tires balance performance factors like grip and longevity.
So what does it actually mean for drivers? Fewer options, more regulation—and a lot of unanswered questions about how it’ll play out in the real world.
We break it all down, what’s fact vs. speculation, and whether this is a meaningful step forward… or just another case of California virtue signaling with no actual beneficial impact.
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