In September, a more rigorous laboratory test for measuring pollutant and CO2 emissions from cars will come into force.
This new test will make some much needed improvements to the way cars are tested, but its introduction is also likely to raise questions among consumers about the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure.
With this in mind, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has today launched a new website – WLTPfacts.eu – to explain the benefits of the new test, examine the impact of WLTP on the consumer and present policy recommendations for its proper implementation.
From September 2017, WLTP will officially apply to new types of cars, ie vehicle models that are introduced on the market for the first time. One year later, from September 2018, WLTP will apply to all new car registrations in the EU.
WLTP will introduce much more realistic testing conditions, including higher speeds, more representative driving behaviour and stricter measurement conditions, than the current lab test (NEDC). The new test will ensure that lab measurements better reflect the on-road performance of a car.
Emissions and efficiency is driving development of a new range of powertrains for vehicles.
New low-emission technologies such as engine downsizing and rightsizing; direct injection; turbocharging; transmission electrification; and electric vehicle (EV), hybrid and gasoline engines are changing the industry.
Original equipment manufacturers are embracing platform strategy as a tool to improve the energy efficiency of powertrain systems and to achieve fleet level CO2 compliance in a sustainable and cost efficient manner.
“Scalability of energy-efficient powertrain systems is pivotal in meeting CO2 and fuel economy targets. Having a sustainable technology-sharing strategy moves OEMs closer to fuel economy targets with optimum costs, while keeping vehicles affordable for buyers,” said Frost & Sullivan Intelligent Mobility Research Analyst Sudeep Kaippalli.
“Joint ventures between suppliers and OEMs will be key to achieve standard emission results and testing procedures, thereby reducing compliance costs.”