Overview
- The California Energy Commission approved the new rolling-resistance limits on August 17, 2026 and set a two-step rollout that begins in 2029 with a tighter phase in 2033.
- The commission says the rule will save drivers about $1 billion a year in fuel and electricity and roughly $179 per driver over a tire set’s life based on its modeling.
- Tire makers and trade groups, including Goodyear, say compliant tires will cost more up front and warn families could pay hundreds of dollars more for replacements under the tighter 2033 standard.
- Enforcement will rely on laboratory testing of tire models and spot retailer checks, and the rule carves out exemptions for snow, motorcycle, off-road, competition, used and retreaded, and limited-production tires.
- Critics question the commission’s cost and durability assumptions and say the rule could sharply cut available models — reports estimate many current tires could fail the 2033 limits — a change that could push some drivers toward cheaper used or retread options and prompt calls for more transparency.