What Information? « Tire Efficiency

Tire Efficiency Consumer Information BETA

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What Information?

Dig In

Rule Map–>Consumer Education Program–>WHAT INFORMATION?

In addition to labeling and other requirements, the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) requires NHTSA to establish a national tire maintenance consumer education program that includes “information on tire inflation pressure, alignment, rotation, and tread wear to maximize fuel efficiency, safety, and durability of replacement tires.” NHTSA’s website already provides some information regarding tire size, tread, balance and alignment, rotation, and repair. NHTSA also recently updated its tire safety pamphlet.

NHTSA is seeking comment on what additional steps it should take to fulfill EISA’s requirements. Specifically, it wants answers to two questions:

what information should be included, and
how should the information be delivered to the public?

NHTSA believes that a major challenge in this area is convincing consumers that advanced tire technologies, such as Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), do not obviate the need for regular maintenance. NHTSA has found that reductions in inflation pressure smaller than those registered by TPMS can affect not only fuel efficiency, but also tire lifespan and vehicle handling. The Transportation Research Board of the National Academies of Science reached the same conclusion at the end of its 2006 report to Congress on Tires and Passenger Vehicle Fuel Economy. That report urged NHTSA to ensure that “new technologies such as tire pressure monitoring systems, more energy-efficient tire designs, and run-flat constructions” increase consumer vigilance about tire maintenance, rather than fostering complacency.

Tags: education, upcoming

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