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http://www.examiner.com/article/motorcycle-manufacturer-fined-175-000-by-air-resources-board
Motorcycle manufacturer fined $175,000
by Air Resources Board (Photos) June 8, 2013 By: Frank Maccioli
California's Air Resources Board announced yesterday that it had
fined Piaggio Group Americas, Inc. $175,000 for violating state air pollution
regulations. The violations were associated with the company's Aprilia brand of
motorcycles. Aprilia is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of motorcycles
and scooters. According to a quick search of local dealers, however, Bakersfield
motorcycle enthusiasts may need to travel to Fresno or Simi Valley to find the
nearest Aprilia dealer. According to ARB investigators, several Aprilia
motorcycles were offered for sale in California without first receiving the
official certification of compliance with the state’s emissions standards.
Additionally, several models had been made with easily adjustable calibrations
that were not disclosed to the ARB during the certification process.
California's Air Resources Board announced yesterday that it had
fined Piaggio Group Americas, Inc. $175,000 for violating state air pollution
regulations. Photo credit: Aprilia website / Fair Use Such variable or
adjustable calibrations within the emission control system allow motorcycle
dealers and owners to change engine performance, however, those changes may
result in increased smog-forming emissions. These calibrations are prohibited by
California law if they are not disclosed to ARB prior to the vehicle’s approval
for sale or if they enable vehicle owners or dealerships to make adjustments
outside the certified configuration.
In announcing the settlement, ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden
noted that “manufacturers not only have a basic responsibility to ensure that
their vehicles meet California requirements prior to sale, but that they also
take reasonable steps to ensure that dealers or owners will not be able to
quickly defeat emissions controls installed on their products.” He went on to
add that “building in a ready pathway to eliminate smog reducing measures is not
acceptable in California certified vehicles.”
Piaggio Group Americas, Inc. fully cooperated with authorities
in the investigation and resolution of this violation.
Funds collected will be paid to the California Air Pollution
Control Fund, established to decrease air pollution through education and the
advancement and use of cleaner technologies.
