NHTSA Seeks Labeling Input in San Fran

According to a notice from SEMA, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will be in San Francisco today holding a public workshop to gather additional information on how to implement a tire fuel efficiency consumer information program.

In 2010, the NHTSA established the test procedures to be used by tire manufacturers when rating the fuel economy, safety and durability characteristics of replacement tires. However, the agency is still debating how to convey the information to consumers at the point of sale and online.

According to SEMA, NHTSA “is specifically interested in whether to base the fuel efficiency rating on the rolling resistance coefficient or the rolling resistance force. The NHTSA is also interested in reviewing the experiences other countries have had in pursuing similar programs.”

The tire testing and labeling program is supposed to allow consumers to compare ratings for different brands and models of replacement tires, and determine potential tradeoffs between tire fuel efficiency, wet traction and treadwear.

Ascot Supply Corporation, based in Newnan, Georgia, has selected Mark Paquette for the newly created position of vice president. In this position, Ascot Supply said Paquette will oversee the growth of the company's products, corporate profitability, manage marketing and advertising and assume many other responsibilities.

He will work under the direction of current President David Kessler and officially begin his new role on June 3. Paquette joined the tire and automotive industry in the early 1980s at his father's tire shop, and his contributions to Mohawk Rubber Sales were instrumental in the company's growth and eventual sale to Myers Tire Supply in 2021, according to Ascot Supply. Paquette eventually was given a promotion to the role of director of operations at Myers Tire Supply.