NHTSA starts a rewrite of tire safety standards
NHTSA announced on October 26 that it will use negotiated rulemaking to update federal tire safety standards, and published its notice in the Federal Register on October 27. Trade outlet Transport Topics reports it would be the first major overhaul of these rules in more than 20 years.
The notice covers three standards, FMVSS 109, 119 and 139, and plans an advisory committee of up to 18 members (tire makers and retailers, automakers, safety groups, researchers and standards bodies) plus an NHTSA representative. On the table: whether the old tire strength (plunger energy), bead unseating and endurance tests are still needed for modern radial tires, how to bring airless (non-pneumatic) tires into the rules, and modernizing the markings on the tire sidewall. Comments and membership applications are due 30 days after publication, which works out to about November 26, 2026 (docket NHTSA-2026-1717).
What it means for owners: nothing changes for the tires you buy today. The committee’s job is to agree on recommendations for a later proposed rule, and Transport Topics notes the process could take years. In the meantime, check tread depth and pressure yourself; our guide explains when to replace tires.
A $15,000 EV tax credit bill, with almost no chance to pass
Rep. Greg Landsman (D-Ohio) introduced the 21st Century Vehicle Choice Act (H.R. 10881) on October 22. Electrek reports it would bring back the federal EV credit at up to $15,000 for new EVs and up to $8,000 for used ones, raise the home charger credit to 50% of the cost, and make all three permanent. The current price caps would stay ($55,000 for cars, $80,000 for SUVs, pickups and vans), income caps would be 25% lower than before, and anyone who already received the new EV credit in an earlier year would get nothing.
The new and used EV credits ended for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025, and the home charger credit after June 30, 2026. Electrek notes the bill had no cosponsors as of October 28, that Republicans control both chambers, and that an identical 2024 bill died in committee.
What it means for owners: do not delay an EV purchase waiting for this credit. Even if it passed, it would apply only to vehicles placed in service after it became law. If you are comparing running costs today, see what charging an EV really costs.
