In September, a more rigorous laboratory test for measuring pollutant and CO2 emissions from cars (WLTP) 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.
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.
Through a series of educational infographics, WLTPfacts.eu answers the most common questions about the WLTP test in a clear and simple way. Besides setting out the benefits of WLTP, providing a transition timeline and explaining the differences between the new test and the old NEDC procedure, the website also addresses pressing consumer concerns related to vehicle taxation and fuel consumption.
For many years, the automobile industry has been actively contributing to the development of this new test. Erik Jonnaert, Secretary General of ACEA: “We believe that manufacturers, policy makers and consumers alike need the more robust WLTP test. Moreover, WLTP will also be an essential measure to win back the trust of customers. But this will first of all require a proper implementation.”
Issues that still require the attention of the EU and national governments include consumer information, taxation and a harmonised introduction of WLTP across the European Union. To that end, WLTPfacts.eu also outlines policy recommendations for ensuring a smooth switch to the more accurate lab test.
