American Notes Smog

The war against smog may soon get a new high-tech weapon. A device being tested in Provo, Utah, uses an infrared beam, computer software and a video camera to add up the carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons billowing from the tail pipes of passing cars -- and to automatically record their license numbers.

If the new device proves accurate, it could go into widespread use next year, when the Clean Air Act of 1990 will require 18 states and 33 cities that have excessive carbon monoxide or ozone levels to begin extensive pollution tests, including on-road exams.

Some prosecutors think the device could also be used to issue pollution tickets to motorists who have deliberately tampered with their cars to get around the new rules. But for the moment at least, about 100 drivers in Provo face a far more desirable consequence if the roadside detector flunks their cars twice: private sources will pay for the necessary repairs.