Final answer:
Recapped or regrooved tires offer a cost-effective solution for buses, especially when faced with increased tire costs due to tariffs on imports. These alternatives to new tires are particularly attractive when budget constraints and high usage patterns are considered for bus operations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Recapped or regrooved tires are a more cost-effective option for heavy vehicles, such as buses, compared to purchasing new tires. This is particularly applicable to buses that operate under the pressures of budget constraints and intense usage patterns. The decision to use recapped or regrooved tires can be influenced by the need for cost-effective tire solutions in the face of increasing tire prices due to political actions, such as the tariffs on imported goods. For instance, in September 2009, a significant tariff was enacted on tires imported from China, sharply increasing their price, which affected even the U.S. companies that manufactured tires, as many also relied on imports. This situation further emphasized the economic appeal of tire recapping and regrooving for bus fleet operators seeking to manage costs effectively while still maintaining safety and performance.