At SXTH Element Engineering, performance and responsibility go hand in hand. That’s why we’re currently working through the rigorous process of securing CARB Executive Orders (EOs) and SEMA Certification for our lineup of intakes and intercoolers for the Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner, Land Cruiser, and Tundra.
This isn’t just about a sticker. It’s about showing our customers, especially those in California and other emissions-regulated states, that our performance parts don’t compromise on environmental standards. It’s about trust, and it’s about proving that our engineering excellence holds up to the highest scrutiny.
What is CARB EO?
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) Executive Order is an exemption that allows specific aftermarket parts to be legally installed and used on emissions-controlled vehicles in California. To be granted an EO, manufacturers must submit detailed engineering data, complete lab-grade emissions testing, and demonstrate that their products do not increase vehicle emissions.
This exemption is crucial if you want to install performance parts legally on a street-driven vehicle in California. But beyond legality, it also reflects the quality and safety of the product. At SXTH, we believe in doing things the right way, even if it takes more time.
What is SEMA Certification?
The SEMA Certification Program is part of a cooperative effort between the aftermarket industry and regulators to streamline the emissions compliance process. Administered by the SEMA Garage Emissions Lab, this program allows companies like SXTH Element to perform testing in a dedicated, EPA-compliant facility with expert guidance.
SEMA Certification acts as the first major step toward CARB EO exemption. It confirms that the product has undergone controlled emissions testing and that the results meet the threshold for formal submission to CARB. While not a replacement for the EO itself, it signals to regulators and customers that the part is designed with compliance in mind and is actively moving through the approval pipeline.
In short, it means we’re serious, and we’re putting in the work.
What’s the Process?
The road to a CARB EO exemption is not a quick one. Testing includes:
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Baseline and Modified Emissions Testing on a certified emissions dyno
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Cold Start Emissions Testing to evaluate startup pollution levels
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Data Collection and Documentation, including detailed engineering and installation information
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Submission to CARB and a technical review process
We’ve partnered with SEMA Garage to help guide our products through this journey. Our Tacoma is currently at SEMA Garage undergoing emissions testing on both the intake and intercooler systems. Based on prior experience and current timelines, we expect the full exemption process to take around six months.
Which Products Are We Certifying?
We’re pursuing CARB EO exemptions and SEMA certs for the following applications:
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Tacoma Intakes and Intercoolers
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4Runner Intakes and Intercoolers
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Land Cruiser Intakes and Intercoolers
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Tundra Intakes
These platforms are the heart of our performance truck lineup. Certifying these parts ensures that our customers can enjoy SXTH power and sound without sacrificing legal compliance.
Why It Matters
For us, the CARB EO process is more than paperwork. It’s a reflection of our values. We are committed to building products that are:
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Performance-oriented
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Engineered for reliability
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Tested for emissions compliance
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Legal and safe for everyday driving
Whether you live in California or not, a CARB EO exemption gives you peace of mind. It shows that SXTH Element parts are not just built to perform, but built to last, and built responsibly.
We’ll keep you updated as these certifications move forward. Until then, thank you for supporting innovation with integrity. We’re proud to push the limits of what’s possible, while keeping the road legal and the air clean.
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