The U.S. Department of Transportation seeks to take the mystery out of tires for consumers, with a proposed new label. If approved, the label would provide easy-to-interpret information on the tire’s impact on fuel economy and CO2 emission reductions. In addition to the new fuel-efficiency ratings, the label would present information on wet weather traction and tread wear. All three ratings would be prominently displayed on a removable label attached to the replacement tire at the point of sale. (See "Tire Myths - 5 Important Facts You Should Know.")
The DOT estimates that rolling resistance accounts for four percent of city fuel economy and seven percent on the highway. For contrast, aerodynamics are estimated to contribute three percent and 11 percent, respectively, toward fuel consumption.
NHTSA is required by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to issue a final rule by December 2009.
Until then, read: "10 Tips for choosing the right new tires for your car or truck."