2009 Tire Inflation and Attitudinal Survey to be completed by Desrosiers Automotive Consultants

During the summer of 2009, motorists in six major centers across Canada may be asked to participate in a study to measure tire maintenance practices, including tire inflation pressure. Since the late 1990's The Rubber Association of Canada (RAC), has been working hard in collaboration with Natural Resources Canada to educate consumers on the benefits of proper tire inflation pressure, alignment, rotation and tread wear. The "Be Tire Smart - Play Your PART" program has been reaching out to drivers to emphasize the value of proper tire maintenance and its benefits of improved fuel economy and safety. Communications Manager, Gilles Paquette, confirms that a six year old study ''provides a benchmark for us to work from. We signed an unprecedented four year agreement with Natural Resources Canada in 2007. One of our deliverables is this very study which will track our progress over the last 6 years.''

Since the original 2003 study was conducted, The RAC has been carrying the message to consumers across the country.

Desrosiers Automotive, a well known Canadian automotive consultant, has been contracted by the RAC to undertake a major study involving some 1,800 motorists from 6 major Canadian cities. The study will not only measure the level of tire maintenance (tire pressure, tread depth, tire wear, etc), but also capture the level of knowledge and attitudes of the drivers towards tire maintenance. These results will be compared to the original study to measure the changes in absolute terms.

"People are more involved than ever, in actions they can personally take to protect the environment" says Glenn Maidment, President of the RAC, and " it is rewarding to see the tire industry's ongoing commitment to the proper use/maintenance of their products."

The study will be carried out during the summer months and results are expected to be available in late September.