No we've always been able to produce HP here in America the thing was more efficient HP. And it took decades to do so and be compliant. And I'm not talking engines performance I'm talking parts and other things they make it so every joe blow can't do without going to the stealership. When you have to pull a bumper to replace a headlight that's the type stuff that could be avoided.
Heck VW rivets their dust shield covering the window motor and regulator your telling me that was the best way? Negative the list of stupid things on vehicles these days is a long one.