It was a response to the large numbers of new models being introduced (each with a couple of engine + transmission combinations), such that the EPA and NHTSA were unable to keep up with the testing load each year.
In hindsight, those agencies should have been staffed better. Additional legislation (which is sure to come, if only so Congressmen can appear to be doing something about the problem) wouldn't have helped, as the cars didn't meet existing laws as it was.
In hindsight, those agencies should have been staffed better. Additional legislation (which is sure to come, if only so Congressmen can appear to be doing something about the problem) wouldn't have helped, as the cars didn't meet existing laws as it was.