SEMA asks for low-volume tyre fuel efficiency exemption

ERJ staff report (R&PN)

Washington DC -- Low-volume production tyres for classic and antique vehicles should be exempted from the tyre fuel efficiency labeling and consumer information rule currently under consideration at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Specialty Equipment Market Association said.

Such tyres already are excluded in the proposed rule printed June 22 in the Federal Register, as guaranteed in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

But in its request for comments, NHTSA asked whether low-volume tyre makers should have to obey the standard's reporting requirements.

“SEMA contends that this requirement represents an unnecessary burden and is contrary to the intent of the law, which is to exempt the limited production tyre manufacturers entirely from the scope of the rule,” the association said in its comments to NHTSA.

Complying with the proposal's reporting requirements would be cost-prohibitive for the makers of such tyres, which in any case are not intended for daily use, the association said.

“Lawmakers recognised that these vehicles are generally used for exhibitions, parades and demonstrations,” SEMA said. “Owners of these vehicles are quite astute about tyre performance and safety issues, and take pride in keeping their tyres in pristine condition.”

From Rubber & Plastics News (A Crain publication)