In measuring pollutant emissions, we are currently facing a transition from the “New European Driving Cycle” (NEDC) to the “Worldwide harmonized Light Duty Vehicle Test Procedure” (WLTP). Both are laboratory tests and therefore an additional test procedure is introduced. This procedure is called “Real Driving Emission” (RDE) and it measures pollutant emissions while real driving on the road
In the 1980s, NEDC was designed to measure emissions in laboratory tests based on theoretical driving patterns. Now, the worldwide harmonized Light Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (WLTC) will take over. This test uses real driving-data from all over the world, aiming to represent real driving profiles better. Even though the WLTC is more realistic, a randomization of the test conditions is considered as necessary by the European Union. By using Portable Emission Measurement Systems (PEMS) being attached to vehicles, an even more accurate measurement is possible while driving on public roads.
In the end of 2016, the member states of the European Union accepted the third legislative package of RDE requirements for passenger cars and vans. This package extends RDE testing to cover Particle Number (PN) emissions, making particle filters probably necessary for petrol cars with direct injection technology.
Testing methods were fine-tuned and they now also include the cold start of the engine. This is because short city trips, which start with a cold engine, create city pollution. RDE Package 3 follows both the RDE Packages 1 and 2, which established real driving emissions testing for the first time. Furthermore, the acts verify that the emission levels of NOx (Nitrogen Oxides) are tested with PEMS during real driving eliminating the discrepancy between performance in a laboratory and on the road and limiting the possibility of the use of defeat devices. The second package set not-to-exceed emission limits applicable in RDE testing.
With the RDE Package 4 focusing on in-service conformity, the RDE procedure will be finalized soon.
The new rules are applicable to new vehicle types that means vehicle models, which are on the market for the first time, from September 2017 onwards. One year later the rules must apply to all new vehicle registrations.
In this regards, Continental is supporting with know-how and customized products with the goal to enable car manufacturers to meet limitations and further reduce emissions. This, in order to work towards an important target of protecting our environment and saving our planet for the future.
Have a look at our Simple Show on "What means RDE, WLTP, NEDC - Measuring fuel consumption and emissions: explained in a simple way!"
In our video, we explain how fuel consumption and exhaust emissions can be measured.