California’s new tire efficiency rules could save drivers $1B a year

California has approved the first state rules on tire efficiency, aimed at a cost most drivers don't think about: replacement tires that use more gas or electricity than the low rolling resistance tires that come on new cars. Regulators say inefficient replacement tires quietly cost drivers money, and the new rule sets standards to keep replacements closer to the efficiency of original tires. The state projects the change could save drivers about $1 billion a year on fuel and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 2 million tons annually.

The rule phases in over time, with the first, less strict standard starting in 2029 and a tougher one in 2033. Snow tires and racing tires are exempt, and so are all-weather tires for now, though the state will track them for possible future rules. Tires will also get a "leaf" rating, similar to the Energy Star label, with four leaves meaning the most efficient option. Manufacturers aren't required to display the rating on the tire itself, so you may need to look up a specific model in the state's online database to compare options.

More efficient tires are expected to cost a bit more per set, but the state estimates the fuel savings over a tire's life more than make up for it, especially with gas prices higher this year. Since California often sets trends other states follow, similar rules could eventually show up elsewhere, and a few states, including Washington and Rhode Island, are already considering their own versions.