Mahle Powertrain is the first independent engineering service provider to have its real driving emissions (RDE) test process and routes approved by the UK Vehicle Certification Agency.
The two approved RDE test routes both start and finish at Mahle Powertrain’s headquarters in Northampton. Each route is approximately 50 miles long and encompasses several different types of roads, including motorways and urban roadways, to comply with the latest EU regulations.
The company’s RDE test process using PEMS has been carefully designed over a long period so that it provides an accurate, true to life reflection of the vehicle’s emissions and fuel consumption.
Derek Wise, chief engineer of build and testing, said, “While our in-vehicle sensing equipment, which measures CO₂, CO and NOx levels, is similar to the system adopted for our indoor vehicle test facility, the most challenging aspect of achieving RDE approval related to the routes themselves.
“We’ve worked hard to develop a mix of real-world driving conditions that meet EU standards. We’re delighted to be the first independent engine test facility to gain this approval.”
June 16, 2016