§7549 High altitude performance adjustments

Summary

Manufacturers must give clear instructions for changing vehicle or engine parts so cars work right at different heights above sea level. If those instructions are approved by the Administrator and followed, the changes will not be treated as breaking section 7522(a). The Administrator can reject instructions if basic engineering checks show the changes would make emissions worse than leaving things alone. Manufacturers must send these altitude-adjustment instructions to the Administrator and must include steps for when a vehicle moves from high altitude to low altitude after first registration. If a manufacturer knowingly fails to submit the instructions, it is treated as a violation under section 7522(a)(3) and can be penalized under section 7524. A manufacturer cannot force the use of its own parts unless it proves those parts are needed to meet emissions. Before January 1, 1981, this authority applied in any high-altitude State as defined under rules made before August 7, 1977. After December 31, 1980, it only applies in high-altitude States that have vehicle emissions inspection programs where air quality standards for auto pollution have not been met. The Administrator must set up at least one high-altitude testing center (in addition to centers that existed on November 15, 1990) to check real-world emissions over a vehicle’s useful life. High-altitude means what the Administrator’s rules said on November 15, 1990. The Administrator must also create a high-altitude research and assessment center, working with other agencies, to develop cleaner heavy-duty engines and fuels, study aftermarket parts and conversions, test alternate fuels, and provide training; projects with local cost-sharing and existing reputable centers with federal test capability should get preference.