Changes in Ontario Drive Clean Program
Ontario's Drive Clean is a government-sponsored automotive emissions reduction program that went into force in April 1999. The program's original goal was to eliminate automobiles that emit significant particle pollutants, which contribute to smog and pollution. Due to the high amount of cars in that portion of the province, it only applies to vehicles registered in the southern regions of the area, from Windsor to Ottawa. Before a vehicle's owner could renew their license plate, the scheme required light-duty cars weighing less than 4,500 kg (cars, SUVs, and light trucks) to pass an emissions test every two years. (vehicles manufactured on even years are tested on odd years, and cars manufactured on odd years are tested on even years). Vehicles built up to 1988 are exempt, as new vehicle emissions requirements took effect in 1989. Diesel truck emissions test in Ontario is made mandatory now for cars. Since the program's inception, the minimum a...