[Someone1234]

We're starting to see changes in vehicle design to address this but typically it is only during a major model redesign rather than between model years.

The popular solution, that is almost free, is simply moving the catalytic converter from mid-tailpipe to directly connected to the engine block. Essentially the CC is surrounded by the engine block itself on all sides, and you have to disassemble the entire engine from above to get to it.

But you're talking about 4~ years between redesigns and that doesn't address any of the vehicles already sold/tens of years of old designs.

[d0gsg0w00f]

I believe that the increased heat level closer to the engine would alter the CC's performance characteristics.

[1] - https://www.open.edu/openlearn/science-maths-technology/scie...

[dotancohen]

Alter: Improve.

Catalytic converters must be hot to operate effectively.

[CarVac]

Improve the performance but reduce the lifespan.