Yes, that is inspected every two years, the only inspection done in Alaska on private vehicles is emissions. The car just passed emissions with flying colors. I don't know what a new catalytic converter would cost; 19 years ago it was $100. It contains a platinum mesh screen, something like the hydrogen scavenger filter on the natural gas line coming to a building.
Point well taken, however, I'm not convinced hybrids are any thing other than a flash in the pan. Until long term costs are determined in maintainance and depreciation, etc. it remains to be seen if they are overall more economical. It certainly is one more nail in the coffin of the small, independant service station.
Clean burn would have reduced fuel use 20~30% over the past 50~60 years.
Meaning mideast monkeys would have 70~80% less money to buy weapons to cause trouble with, among other things.
This angle is hardly ever addressed.
Another angle is clean burn makes cars last longer, they hate that too.
As Lilly Tomlin says;
"No matter how cynical you become, it's never enough to keep up!"