mobile-menu-icon
Motrolix

Innocent 1984 Ford Ranger Crushed In The Name Of Clean Motoring: Video

The state of California is known for its sizeable, progressive moves toward a clean air future, among other things. After all, it’s the state responsible for the California Air Resources Board, or CARB, which sets the strictest emissions standards in the nation.

So, when Autoblog reported that California State Senator Kevin de León had introduced a new pilot incentives program aimed at getting more low-income persons behind the wheel of a new hybrid or EV, it came as no surprise. What was a tad shocking is how the State Senator chose to kick-off the program: by crushing one family’s 1984 Ford Ranger in front of a live audience.

The video above shows the cruel, callous fate of the 1984 Ford Ranger, which had belonged to the Mendoza family. They drove away from the event in a 2013 Toyota Prius, according to Autoblog.

California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project has faced criticism, and perhaps rightfully so; many see the incentives program as being almost entirely beneficial to the wealthy, while still leaving most low- or zero-emissions vehicles beyond the grasp of low-income families. The pilot program pushed forth by State Senator Kevin de León attempts to rectify that, by offering a rebate of $1,500 to $9,500 depending upon the income of the participant, and the vehicle that they are purchasing.

It’s an undeniably noble goal, but did it necessitate the barbaric death of a 1984 Ford Ranger? We think not.

Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger applauded the pilot incentive program’s kick-off, and even joined in on the fun. We won’t spoil the mystery of how he disposes his old clunker; just watch the video below.

Aaron Birch is an automotive enthusiast and writer/filmmaker from Detroit, MI. As a rule, he only buys cars older than himself.

No Comments yet

Leave a comment

Cancel