From CNN

Apparently, in Georgia, they do a "tail pipe" sensor test, and the (ICE) engine must be running at 2,500 RPM during the test. The problem is that once warm up (as the test also requires), the ICE shuts down. So, the Prius fails the emission test due to incorrect RPM's.

Though not mentioned in the story, can't they just turn 'on' the rear defroster or something, and force the ICE to run (like on my MMH)???

Best single LD trip: 35.3mpg

Did you see the first headline that they had on this story? It read "Prius fails emissions test in Georgia". Nice teaser line, eh? The Hummer loving guy in the cubicle next to me almost fell of his seat, he couldn't wait to tell me about it when he saw that headline. Of course he had not read the actual story. What's with these doubters who are just waiting to hear bad news about our great cars ??!!!!

Interestingly though, I went to CNN later in the day and the link had changed to read "Prius runs so clean it fails emissions test". Wonder why the change to the headline of the story.

2005 Salsa Red Prius w/Package #4

Hahahaha!

We have those kinds of mandatory tests here too, but hybrids are excluded due to the issue of getting the engine to run for the test. I believe the ICE can be forced to run using a diagnostics tester.

Two climate control systems, one inside and the other at the tailpipe.

2007 Camry Hybrid (in service June 2006)
FE: 6.67L/100km or 35.3 mpg (6.11L/100km or 38.5 mpg in summer)