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Sand car manufacturers sold uncertified products in California. 

Release 09-29
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
April 2, 2009 

Gennet Paauwe
(916) 322-2990
www.arb.ca.gov 

Sand Car Association pays $600,000 for illegal vehicle sales
Penalties apply to 37 manufacturers 

SACRAMENTO - Last month the California Air Resources Board fined
a consortium of sand car sellers $600,000 for its members'
illegal engine and vehicle sales between 2006 and 2008.

ARB investigators found that illegal engines and vehicles were
being sold in California by several sand car manufacturers. The
penalties from this case apply to 37 members of the newly formed
association that were selling uncertified products.

"Industries that cater to off-road enthusiasts must also
consider their product's impact on the environment," said ARB
Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "Uncontrolled emissions from these
vehicles add to California's already serious smog problems."

As a result of the investigation, most major sand car
manufacturers and some engine suppliers located in California
formed the Sand Car Association. to ensure that its members build
compliant products. The association's formation has resulted in
industry self-enforcement and California certification of three
engines for use in sand cars.

For a complete list of the 37 manufacturers included in the
settlement go to http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/scalist.pdf.

ARB is still investigating other sand car manufacturers that are
producing and selling illegal non-California certified vehicles.

Sand cars are off-road vehicles popular at state and federal
recreation areas like Pismo Beach and Glamis Dunes. The
Department of Motor Vehicles can revoke registrations of illegal
vehicles; therefore, it is important that dealers and purchasers
ensure that the vehicles are legal in California.

Clean vehicle engines cut smog-forming emissions and improve
fuel economy, reducing harmful greenhouse gases. Smog can cause
respiratory problems, including asthma, and effects the lung
function growth of children.

The Air Resources Board is a department of the California
Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and
protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through
effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and
considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air
pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain
health based air quality standards.

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