According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (known as ACEA), new real-driving emissions (RDE) tests will result in a substantial number of diesel models being phased out earlier than planned.
At the end of last month, the European Union voted to adopt RDE tests for new models as of September 2017. The purpose of the new test procedure is to bridge the gap between the current regulated testing of emissions (using a laboratory test) and conditions experienced on the road.
The ACEA said: “While our members understand the need for RDE testing, it will be extremely difficult for them to comply with the new regulations in such a short space of time. As a direct consequence, a substantial number of diesel models will have to be phased out earlier than planned.
“As well as having serious economic implications, this will make it more challenging for manufacturers to meet the 2021 targets for CO2 emission reductions, since diesel engines emit 15-20% less CO2 than comparable petrol engines.”
ACEA secretary-general Erik Jonnaert said: “RDE testing of cars on real roads under realistic driving conditions will be a new addition to the existing test requirements, making Europe the only region in the world to implement such real-world testing for cars.
“Over the past few years, the policy initiated by the EU institutions has focused on reducing green-house-gas emissions, resulting in the world’s most stringent targets for CO2 emissions from passenger cars.”