In the United States, marketplaces like Copart and Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc. (IAAI) offer a wide variety of vehicles for auction, ranging from lightly used cars to those in need of significant repair. However, one notable aspect of these marketplaces is the relatively small number of diesel vehicles compared to their gasoline counterparts. This phenomenon is not just limited to auction sites but reflects a broader trend in the US automotive market. Several factors contribute to the scarcity of diesel cars in the US, including consumer preferences, regulatory challenges, and historical events.

One of the primary reasons for the limited presence of diesel cars in the US is consumer preference. Historically, American consumers have favored gasoline-powered vehicles due to their lower upfront cost, the availability of gasoline, and the perception of gasoline engines offering a smoother and quieter ride. Diesel engines, on the other hand, have been associated with commercial use, such as in trucks and heavy machinery, contributing to their niche status in the passenger vehicle market.

Regulatory standards in the US have also played a significant role in shaping the diesel car market. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has stringent emissions standards for vehicles, which are particularly challenging for diesel engines to meet. Diesel engines typically produce higher levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulates, which are pollutants targeted by environmental regulations. Meeting these regulations requires additional technology and systems to reduce emissions, which can increase the cost and complexity of diesel vehicles.

The diesel market in the US suffered a significant setback due to the "Dieselgate" scandal, which involved several automakers, most notably Volkswagen. It was discovered that Volkswagen had been using software in their diesel vehicles to cheat on emissions tests, leading to a massive recall and a significant loss of consumer trust in diesel technology. This scandal not only affected Volkswagen but also cast a shadow over the entire diesel industry, leading to decreased consumer interest and investment in diesel cars.

While diesel engines are generally more fuel-efficient than their gasoline counterparts, the rising concern over environmental issues and the push for renewable energy sources have led consumers to favor gasoline and, increasingly, electric vehicles (EVs). The growing EV market, supported by government incentives and an expanding charging infrastructure, has further eroded the demand for diesel cars.

The scarcity of diesel cars in the US, as observed in marketplaces like Copart and IAAI, is the result of a complex interplay of consumer preferences, regulatory challenges, historical events, and shifting environmental priorities. While diesel vehicles offer certain advantages, such as fuel efficiency and durability, these benefits have been overshadowed by concerns over emissions, regulatory hurdles, and a significant shift towards electrification in the automotive industry. As the US continues to embrace electric vehicles, the future of diesel cars remains uncertain, with their presence likely to remain limited in the consumer market.