By Katherine Helmetag

Atomicalex

The Society of Automotive Engineers is meeting in Detroit this week, and they invited the Governator to give the keynote address in keeping with the green theme. Schwartzenegger’s comments caused an uproar when he claimed that CARB was setting emissions standards because somehow Cali folk know what is best for the rest of us. He did stress that a unified and complete energy policy was critical to the success of the US auto industry, but did not comment when asked if the Left Coast would consider compromise with USEPA. Arnold also announced that he will star (for free!) in any ads for “American cars, cars built in Detroit.” So which one of the Not-So-Big Three will step up first? You tell us!

By Brian Lohnes

BangShift.com

Talk about the thing that wouldn’t die. The recurring nightmare known unofficially as the “Cash for Clunkers” program to get old cars off the road is going to be reintroduced by CARB again soon.

Yes, this time it is California specific, but again, once these programs get a toehold it’s time look out, because we’re headed down the slippery slope. This is an “enhanced” plan that is even more evil than the last one as cars are no longer required to fail a smog or emissions check to be eligible. That means that anyone who wants some quick cash for their old car could turn it in no questions asked. At least before, the car had to be running like crap for you to be able to ditch it.

California is in probably the worst financial shape of any state in the country. It’s a recognized freaking disaster, yet they are still clamoring to spend the money of the tax paying citizens to buy other people’s old cars.

What a country.  Start writing SEMA and hit the link here to read more about this junk.

By Katherine Helmetag

Atomicalex

I’m going on record as against the ruling yesterday that states can petition to set their own emissions guidelines. The Law of Unintended Consequences is about to apply itself to car buyers in a really painful manner. Right now, if your car dealer doesn’t have the option set you want, s/he can pull from the entire US (or CARB pool) to get it. Once we get local emissions, you’re only going to be able to get local cars. Imagine the diesel debacle, only now it’s gassers, and now you can only get cars that are legal in your own state! Worse yet, emissions are going to be an options package, meaning fewer trim levels to choose from in any given local emissions zone. I’m all for clean air, but this is going to SUCK.