Diesel Tuner Faces Year in Prison

In reply to AnthonyGS (Forum Supporter) :

This guy was not small potatoes, however.

In reply to AnthonyGS (Forum Supporter) :

Smog forming emissions are localized to the point that what's happening on the other side of the planet isn't super critical. It's the GHG's that really have a global impact. These diesel tuners aren't really being punished for GHG emissions though, it's smog forming emissions that are the problem in this case. So cracking down on them can have a meaningful impact vs doing nothing.

My greatest concern with the EPA being given the authority to come after tuners and aftermarket tuning parts suppliers is the likelihood that they will turn their attention to racecars next. 

It isn't just the tailpipe emissions either. Racing uses more fuel, tires, brakes, oil, and other consumables per capita than typical commuters would use. Since it is the name of fun, and has no other purpose, it would be reasonable to say that all grassroot motorsports activity is inherently bad for the environment without producing some perceived benefit which could offset the consumption of petroleum and mineral based items. 

Is it therefore my opinion that if we keep allowing the EPA to crack down on relatively small subgroups in the name of environmental justice, it is just a matter of time until our hobby comes up as a target.

Bear in mind, the original intent of the Clean Air Act and the creation of the EPA was to control large scale pollution in the manufacturing, construction, and transportation sectors by companies. In doing so, our air and environment in general have been improved. Over time, the law has been reinterpreted and augmented such that the EPA is managing the emissions of ever smaller entities, eventually making to your local dyno facility, mechanic shop, and racetrack. 

The EPA has been going after "tuners" since the early 70s.  This is nothing at all new.

There was a dealership that was swapping off the shelf big blocks into Camaros, Vegas, you name it.  The hammer came down on them too.  They were smart enough to cease and desist rather than get all "you can't stop me!!!" (Narrator: They can and will)

The EPA was also going after enthusiasts, until industry groups led a push for motorsports allowances.  This has been all fine and good until the dieselbros decided to ruin it for everyone.

In reply to YoursTruly :

So you don't think that the agency tasked with emissions should have the authority to go after companies that are blatantly breaking the law by selling devices that delete emissions equipment?  Ummm......