EPA Sets Class 8 Retread Standards

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has established a verification program for tire retreads used by linehaul Class 8 trucks.

In a June 11 letter to tire makers, the agency said its new low-rolling-resistance performance standards for tire retreads are expected to cut fuel consumption by at least 3%, compared with the most popular tire retreads.

To obtain the minimum reductions in fuel consumption, verified tires or retreads must be used on the drive and trailer positions with EPA-verified steer tires, and all tires must be properly inflated according to manufacturers’ specifications, the agency said.