Imagine a world where electric vehicles (EVs) could secretly bend the rules to cheat emissions tests—sounds like a sci-fi thriller, right? Well, one reader just crafted the most diabolical (and hilarious) scenario for how this could happen, and it’s our Comment of the Day (COTD). But here’s where it gets controversial: could such a scheme actually exist in the real world? Let’s dive in.
Tesla has long been the poster child for electric car efficiency, but a new contender has emerged—at least in Europe. Mercedes-Benz’s latest EV has reportedly outperformed even Tesla, leaving Germany’s toughest environmentalist in awe. But how can other manufacturers replicate this success? Is it pure innovation, or is there more to the story?
Brian shared a fascinating piece (https://www.theautopian.com/the-new-mercedes-ev-is-so-good-that-germanys-toughest-environmentalist-reportedly-couldnt-believe-it/#comments) about the Mercedes-Benz CLA’s remarkable efficiency, which earned it the first COTD from Ranwhenparked. But here’s the twist: the commenter jokingly suggests that all CLAs are equipped with steering wheel fingerprint scanners. Why? To detect when they’re being tested by regulators like Friedrich, automatically switching to a high-efficiency mode. The rest of the time? They supposedly emit a chemical from their HVAC vents that’s harmless to humans but deadly to owls and baby seals. Dark humor aside, this raises a serious question: How far would companies go to meet emissions standards?
Switching gears, David Tracy penned a heartfelt piece (https://www.theautopian.com/im-at-a-cheap-motel-850-miles-from-home-staring-at-my-new-1992-jeep-comanche-and-its-so-perfect/comment-page-2/#comments) about his newfound love for a 1992 Jeep Comanche, all while holed up in a cheap motel. The comments section lit up with playful banter. Rollin Hand quipped that David might be the only husband to sneak away to a motel with a pickup truck—especially one as unique as a Jeep. Elhigh nostalgically pointed out that the Comanche’s long bed harkens back to the 'Before Times,' when trucks were built for utility, not luxury. These vehicles were designed for work, with massive beds to haul cargo and cabs that seated just two people—because, let’s face it, most trips were solo or with one passenger. It’s a stark contrast to today’s oversized trucks with tiny, impractical trunks.
Tbird offered a word of wisdom: 'Don’t fall in love at a cheap motel.' Angry Bob joked about the existence of a support group for such situations, while Lotsofchops suggested creating a website for like-minded enthusiasts—though they doubted it would catch on. The thread ended on a lighthearted note, inviting everyone to the next meeting of 'Jeeps and Smarts Anonymous.'
And this is the part most people miss: While the EV emissions joke is clearly satire, it highlights a real concern about transparency in automotive testing. Are manufacturers truly meeting standards, or are there hidden tricks we don’t know about? And for truck enthusiasts, the nostalgia for practical, no-frills designs like the Jeep Comanche raises another question: Have modern vehicles lost touch with their original purpose?
What do you think? Is the EV industry as transparent as it claims to be? And do today’s trucks still prioritize functionality over flash? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
