S. Korea to introduce mandatory rating system for tires

South Korea plans to introduce a new car tire rating system in the second half of 2012 aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the government said. The plan calls for tire companies to voluntarily inform consumers about such matters as traction, durability, rolling resistance and the fuel efficiency of products they sell in 2011, with mandatory certification and labelling rules to be enforced after a grace period of one year, the Ministry of Knowledge Economy said. Under the system, tire suppliers are required to attach a state-issued certificate on their domestic products to help consumers make informed choices on the tires they are buying and help root out substandard products cited for causing car accidents. (April 4, 2010)