Despite the slow economy, business has been brisk at Texas Tire and Accessory LP in Hallettsville, Texas. Right now, oil and gas drilling production activity related to the nearby Eagle Ford shale formation is driving new customers into the 7,600-square-foot shop owned and operated by Todd Schindler.

Tags: Ann Neal, Light truck tires, Mike Jahn, Texas Tire and Accessory, Todd Schindler

Light trucks, sport-utility vehicles (SUV) and crossover utility vehicles (CUV) are on the move in more ways than one. As they shift from traditional body-on-frame construction to passenger car chassis derivatives, there is increasing demand for them — and tires that offer ride quality, durability and fuel economy.

Tags: CUV Tires, Light truck tires, SUV tires

OK, so let's say a customer rolls in with a large SUV that's OE-equipped with 19-inch wheels. Since he or she feels the need to be a sheep and blindly follow the "bling" crowd, the customer informs you that he or she wants to max out the wheel/tire package simply for the sake of appearance. The new target: 26-inch chromed alloys mated to massive section-width performance rubber.

Tags: Light truck tires, Plus-sizing, SUV