What is CAP2000?
CAP2000 is a federally mandated Compliance Assurance Program (CAP), which was adopted and implemented in Calendar year 2000. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) series of regulations pertaining to vehicle emission compliance intends to provide automotive manufacturers more flexibility in ensuring vehicle emission compliance. The CAP2000 In Use Verification Program (IUVP) requires automotive manufacturers to perform emission test on vehicles owned and operated in real world conditions. In this program we perform emission test on customer vehicles. Most automotive manufacturers were required to begin testing in calendar year 2005.
Why have I not heard about this program before?
This program is relatively new for the automobile industry. Less than 1% of the overall vehicle population in the MI, OH, IN and IL states are tested. Vehicle selection is localized around the Ann Arbor TechCenter, which is located in Ann Arbor, MI.
Where is the testing conducted?
Testing takes place at Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America, Inc. at the Ann Arbor TechCenter. This lab is within close proximity to the USEPA National Fuel Economy Vehicle Laboratory.
How long will you need the vehicle for testing?
To allow test schedule flexibility, your vehicle will be at our TechCenter for an estimated time of three weeks. We will contact you if the timeframe changes.
How many miles will be put on the vehicle? Will the vehicle be driven indoors or outdoors?
Our skilled Mercedes-Benz technicians will accumulate approximately 80 to 100 miles (depending on test type) on your vehicle. The testing will be performed on our indoor dynamometers in environmentally controlled testing chambers. The dynamometer simulates road load friction. This is the similar process used to certify all the Mercedes-Benz vehicles for emissions in North America and Canada.
When will I know if my vehicle has been selected?
The USEPA mandates that we achieve a response rate of 20% or higher and wait a minimum of two weeks from initial mail out date before contacting the customers. Our experience shows that customers are contacted within six to eight weeks of their response.
When (actual date) will we request your vehicle?
Vehicle procurement is based on the laboratory testing schedule. In some instances, vehicles will be procured immediately (1 to 3 days) following the telephone questionnaire. In other cases we will schedule the testing as far out as one month.
What kind of loaner vehicle will I be provided?
Depending on availability, we will attempt to provide you with a comparable year Mercedes-Benz vehicle. Our fleet currently represents many body styles and powertrain variations.
Who will cover the loaner vehicle if I am in an accident?
Your insurance company is required to pay for any damages or repair incurred to our loaner vehicles while in your custody, similar to a rental car without the additional insurance. Mercedes-Benz does not offer comprehensive insurance..
What happens if I sell/do not have my vehicle? Should I still send in my response card?
If the vehicle is sold before you enroll in the program, please indicate that your vehicle is sold on the response card and mail it back to the Ann Arbor TechCenter . In an effort to maintain accurate and up-to-date customer records, we rely on your feedback.
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