New technology can change that.
The program retrofits these vehicles with a new technology upgrade kit that reduces smog-forming emissions by 60 percent. The kit was developed by Neutronics Enterprises of Rancho Bernardo, contractor for the project, and is funded by the Air Pollution Control Board. A total of 1,350 cars will be modified, reducing mobile source emissions in the region by more than 57 tons over the next three years. Other air districts throughout the United States and automotive people from around the world are interested in this program because it efficiently reduces older vehicle emissions for a relatively low cost. Three-way catalytic units were not required on cars until 1982.