Comment Log Display

Success in achieving widespread and essentially voluntary
compliance with this effort from the average driver will be much
better if it is easy for the average driver to make sure their
tires are up to snuff.

It is very easy to measure tire pressure with simple gauges
costing $5-$10.  But locating an air supply at a refueling station
that is free and in good working order is almost impossible.

So this particular Early Action (2-20) should be supported by
requirements for easy and widespread access to compressed air
supplies.  Now I am certain that this represents a financial
burden for many refueling stations.  At low-cost stations where
economically challenged drivers are most likely to be found.  I
believe profit margins are thin and come primarily from sales of
junk food & gambling rather than from fuel sales.  Moreover, air
supply devices experience a lot of abuse and can be expensive to
maintain.  Any free good induces a certain level of moral hazard,
such as drivers who need only air and no fuel at a particular
time, as well as cyclists who only need air.

Therefore, refueling stations should have access to some financial
support as necessary to provide this environmental service.  For
example, a very small state levy on fuel sales could fund this
public good.

Now, such air supply devices are not terribly complicated nor
often very precise.  Refueling stations should not be required to
maintain supply valves that are as accurate as the simple gauges
mentioned above that are easy to learn to use for anyone who is
smart enough to drive.  Such precision supply valves are too
easily compromised by the abuse they will inevitably experience,
and maintenance should be focused on maintaining free air pressure
and just such precision sufficient to avoid danger due to
over-inflation.

As with many actions which will reduce GHG emissions, consumer
education, acceptance, and commitment are essential to success. 
The onset of cool fall weather often induces under-inflation, so
this is a time for drivers to be reminded to check.  Some may have
safety concerns about over-inflation.  According to Click & Clack,
under-inflation is usually more damaging to the tire, but what
exactly are the factors of safety for over-inflation, especially
after minor damage from under-inflation?  Drivers need to hear and
understand the actual facts.