The California Air Resources Board (ARB) today announced that it has fined Yamaha approximately $2.2 million for violating California laws related to off-road vehicles. The penalty pertains to the illegal import and sale of 2007 Rhinos that were not certified to meet state standards.
The action follows up on ARB's $3 million penalty against Suzuki announced last week for emission violations related to its off-road motorcycles. Off-roading is a popular activity for many living in the Bakersfield, Kern County, and San Joaquin Valley, which has some of the worst air quality in the nation.
“Verification of a new vehicle’s ability to meet anti-smog requirements is a cornerstone of our clean air efforts," said ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden. "Businesses that sell vehicles
before demonstrating that they effectively reduce emissions pose a danger to public health. They are also engaging in practices that are unfair to their competitors.”
The court approved settlement between ARB, Yamaha Motor Corp USA, and Yamaha Motor Company Ltd. of Japan totaled $2,205,000. Both sides have agreed to stop further legal actions related to this issue, provided that Yamaha ensures that future vehicle sales will fully comply with California law. Additionally, $255,000 of the settlement penalty was suspended for a period of three years provided Yamaha does not import, deliver, or sell any on- or off-road vehicles prior to their receiving certification of compliance with new vehicle standards by the Air Resources Board.
Settlement funds will be paid to the California Air Pollution Control Fund, created to support clean air research.
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