EPA Says Firms to Pay $680K for Importing Uncertified Recreational Vehicles
On January 11, 2012, the Environmental Protection Agency announced a settlement of $680,000 with recreational vehicle manufacturers, Loncin (USA), Inc., Longting USA LLC, and Chongqing Longting Power Equipment Co., Ltd. (respondents), to resolve violations of the Clean Air Act (CAA) related to the importation of 7,115 uncertified recreational vehicles into the U.S.
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Used Certificates of Conformity Voided by EPA After Investigation
EPA alleges that Loncin (USA), Inc. and Longting USA LLC held certificates of conformity that were voided by EPA following an investigation of MotorScience, Inc., a California-based certification services consulting firm that allegedly used false or incomplete information to certify vehicles under the Clean Air Act for four of its clients, including Loncin.
Certificates Allowed Importation of 7,115 Non-Compliant Recreational Vehicles
These certificates allowed the importation and sale of more than 24,000 recreational vehicles in the U.S. that did not meet Clean Air Act standards, including 7,115 vehicles manufactured by the respondents and imported by companies such as the Pep Boys -- Manny, Moe & Jack, Baja, Inc., and BMS Motorsports, Inc.
Uncertified Engines May Lack Controls, Compete Unfairly w/ Compliant Products
EPA states that engines that are not certified may be operating without proper emissions controls, which can emit excess carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides and cause respiratory illnesses, aggravate asthma and contribute to the formation of ground level ozone, or smog. An EPA spokesperson adds that “By taking action to deter the importation and sale of non-compliant engines, EPA is ensuring a level playing field for manufacturers and protecting Americans from illegal air emissions.”