More than 40% of passenger tires and more than 50% of light truck tires would not withstand new tire testing standards proposed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), according to Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) officials.
NHTSA originally estimated that "about one-third (32.8%) of all tires would need improvements to pass" its testing proposals announced last February.
NHTSA is calling for speed tests that are significantly higher than those currently specified, longer endurance tests and "a more stringent combination of testing parameters."
RMA officials call the proposals "unwarranted and extreme given the high level of safety and performance of today's tires."
"NHTSA has absolutely failed to demonstrate that a significant population of today's tires is not performing in a safe and reliable manner," says Donald Shea, RMA president and CEO.
