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The development and application of qualification requirements for automotive service technicians and mechanics participating in vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs is vital to the realization of maximum emissions reductions. Using the existing British Columbia (B.C.) trades qualification system for mechanics as a screening mechanism, the provincial I/M mechanic certification requirements take into account not only skill and knowledge related to automotive emissions control, but knowledge regarding the administrative requirements of the program as well. In addition to rigorous mechanic qualification requirements, the centralized B.C. Inspection program will include loaded-mode testing and NOx measurement, as well as thorough visual and functional inspection of emissions control components.

The fuel economy data compiled by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have been analyzed to determine the trends in passenger car fuel economy beginning with model year 1957. This paper adds the 1976 model year data to the historical trend and concentrates on comparisons between the 1976 and 1975 models. Calculation procedures which allow the changes in fuel economy to be determined separately for system optimization, new engine/vehicle combinations, and model mix shifts have been employed in the analysis which compares 1976 models with 1975 models. A wide range of percentage changes was seen for the fifteen manufacturers who were certified in time to be included in the analysis performed for this paper. The net change in fuel economy for the 1976 new car fleet has been estimated at +12.8% compared to the 1975 new car fleet. System optimization is responsible for 8.8% of the improvement and model mix shifts are projected to account for +3.1% of the change.