The Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) has come into force, replacing the NEDC.
The new procedure measures fuel consumption, CO₂, NOx, particulates by mass and number (PM/PN), and CO. It covers a greater range of vehicle and engine speeds, engine load, gear changes and temperatures than the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). It will also take into account modern vehicle technology.
As well as a tough new laboratory test, all newly launched car models will have to undergo robust on-road testing before they go on sale.
Mike Hawes, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) chief executive, said, “We welcome this challenging new regime, which will provide hard evidence that the industry’s ongoing investment in ever more advanced technology is delivering on air quality goals.
“Combined, these new and demanding tests will soon give consumers emissions performance information that is far closer to what they experience behind the wheel – and inspire greater confidence that the new cars they buy are not only the cleanest, but the most fuel efficient ever produced.”
Newly designed cars will start to be tested under the regime over the coming months after the final piece of legislation specifying the requirements that allow testing authorities and manufacturers to prepare was published in July this year.
This means consumers could start to see these brand new models arrive in showrooms from as early as next year. By September 1, 2018, all new cars on sale will have undergone WLTP testing and by September 1, 2019, all will have undergone the full RDE testing for both NOx and PN.
September 5, 2017