Prof. Toshio Nishi, representative director of the research association of nano-structured polymer at the Beijing University of Chemical Technology, discusses the issues with testing worn tire performance
As an academic I am neutral on the topic, however there are various points to address.
I believe a worn tire standard may be necessary, however, there are so many variables that can affect worn tire performance. For example, in Japan, on average, more than 30% of tires on vehicles on the highway are under-inflated. This will affect worn tire performance greatly. Furthermore, road conditions vary between countries. There are many different driving styles as well.
As such, tires must be inflated to the correct level, but it is the responsibility of the consumer to use the tire according to the producer’s recommendations, but this is extremely difficult to monitor.
There has been a lot of negative press concerning fake data, fake inspections, and covering up of mistakes in the automotive industry and by governments. Inspection of worn tires could become another source of fake data, as well as more lawsuits – which would be good news for lawyers.
