[ztarum]

The problem with eco-friendly kit cars is that current emissions rules make it difficult to build one. In many states, cars with engines later than 1996 must pass an OBDII test, which is a computer diagnostic test. The problems is that with kit cars not all of the donor components transfer (fuel tank pressure sensor, wheel speed sensors, etc.). As a result, the OBDII shows errors and the car is failed even though it has cats, etc.

I know this because I really wanted to build a Caterham Super Seven, which uses the Ford Focus SVT engine. In the end, I gave up because it was just too difficult to get a late model engine to pass the OBDII. So I got a Cobra with a 1969 engine, which will have no problem getting through emissions based on the year of the motor. Ironic.

So, Thanks to New Jersey's stupid rules I will be driving around is a gas guzzling hydrocarbon spewing monster instead of 2 liter 4 cyliner that sips gas and burn clean. Oh well.