Requirements for SmartWay Verification of Low Rolling Resistance (LRR) Tires and Retread Technologies for Tractors or Trailers
Before applying for SmartWay verification of your LRRs, consider the following:
- Guidance for tire size
- Considerations for tire and retread models with multiple tread depths
- Performance requirements
- Testing requirements
- Laboratory requirements for testing
- Requirements for the applicant
- Requirements for availability of equipment
Guidance for tire size
For guidance for new tire size, please see: Tire Size Guidance page.
Considerations for tire and retread models with multiple tread depths
Tire casing for testing (“test casing”): The test casing shall be made from any new-unused SmartWay verified casing dual size 295/75R22.5 or 275/80R22.5 load range G or size 445/50R22.5 load range L (single-wide casing). Other sizes and load ranges must be approved by EPA in advance.
If the tread depth tested is the deepest tread depth, the entire product line of the model with different tread depths qualifies for verification.
If the test results are submitted for one of the shallower tread depths, only the models with the shallower tread depths will be verified.
Performance requirements
Testing requirements
There is no charge for verification, but the manufacturer is responsible for the costs of testing.
Tests must include a sample of three tires for each tire model ("pattern").
Laboratory requirements for testing
- Be accredited by a body recognized by the International Laboratory Accreditation Corporation (ILAC) to be in compliance with ISO 17025 for the SAE J1269/ISO28580 test methods
- Provide a copy of the laboratory's accreditation certificate (in English translation, if necessary) with every set of lab report.
- The laboratory must provide data showing that their results are aligned to an accredited laboratory OR
- EPA may accept alternative evidence of laboratory competence and quality assurance/quality control by prior arrangement.
Requirements for the applicant
Tire manufacturers may apply for verification.
- The relationship between the applicant and the manufacturer; and
- The name and location of the manufacturing facility.
Requirements for availability of product
Tires and retread products submitted for verification must be commercially available for installation. No products still in the research and development stage will be verified. However, we will verify tire models and retread products whose market launch is imminent.