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GNYADA (New York Metro Franchise New Car And Truck Dealers) Supports Stricter Emissions Testing

19 December 1997

GNYADA (New York Metro Franchise New Car And Truck Dealers) Supports Stricter Emissions Testing

    WHITESTONE, N.Y., Dec. 19 -- The Greater New York Automobile
Dealers Association (GNYADA) is embracing a new state regulation that requires
stricter testing of auto emissions.  The ruling, which will help reduce
pollution and meet tougher federal clean air standards in the tri-state area
affects about five million motorists in Westchester and Rockland counties,
Long Island and New York City.
    "It is regrettable that the Long Island Gasoline retailers association has
taken legal steps at the 11th hour to thwart an emission inspection program
that will benefit consumers and the environment," said Mark Schienberg,
executive vice president of the GNYADA, "We are all confident that the state
will prevail and the program will be upheld."
    The new, more sophisticated testing procedure combines a computer enhanced
pollution detection device with a dynamometer -- essentially, a car treadmill
-- which measures emissions under simulated travel conditions.  Under the
state ruling, all inspection stations are required to invest up to $45,000 for
new emissions-testing equipment.  The program is effective January 2, 1998 and
inspection station operators have until November 1998 to complete the
installation and training process.
    "Although $45,000 is a hefty investment for business owners, the
automotive industry has a responsibility to maintain a clean and healthy
environment," stated Mr. Schienberg.
    GNYADA has consistently supported the Governor's emission initiative.
Schienberg has been a member of the Advisory Council, working closely with the
DMV and the Department of Environmental Conservation to shepherd through the
new regulation.
    To date, a vast majority of test sites have already purchased the new
equipment.  The new safety and emissions test administered at these sites
costs $35, instead of the current $19.  Several studies indicate that
consumers are willing to spend a few extra dollars for a cleaner environment.
    "This is some of the most sophisticated testing equipment on the market,"
noted Schienberg.  "Though there is some initial opposition to the program,
everyone will benefit from this new initiative."
    The Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association represents nearly
500 franchise new car dealers in the metro area of New York, selling over
700,000 cars each year.

SOURCE  Greater New York Metro Franchise New Car and Truck Dealers