Real world car emissions data to be available from 2016 ~ station of gear

From 2016 onwards a new service will allow buyers to compare real-world emissions from new cars

2015-11-29 00:01

From 2016 onwards a new initiative by analytics firm, Emissions Analytics, will allow consumers to identify and compare real-world emissions of new cars sold.

The analytics company specialises in testing real world, on-road, vehicle emissions, and since 2011 has tested over 1,000 vehicles using the same real-world measurement tools the European Union will adopt in 2017 to modernise its type approval emissions and mpg testing.

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Using a portable emissions measurement system (PEMS) Emissions Analytics will be able to show how much each car actually pollutes when driven – and will rank each vehicle based on the findings. The rating scheme will remain separate from vehicle manufacturers’ certification test, and be publically available for both consumers and the industry.

The company will be able to rank cars based on CO2, nitrogen oxide (NOx) and hydrocarbons, among other pollutants.

With vehicle emissions continuing to capture headlines, and buyers' trust on stated figures taking a huge hit, the new service will bridge the gap between the official test results and how much cars actually pollute on the road.

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The company has said it hopes the results will influence policy development and implementation in the future, while also helping buyers make more informed decisions.

While Emissions Analytics remains an independent specialist, it has brought in a group of independent air-quality experts to both verify its findings and provide advice and guidance on testing methodology and monitoring. The panel of experts range from leading academics to fellows at the International Council on Clean Transportation.

Emissions Analytics said: “We see this rating scheme as a positive contribution to the industry, shaken by recent scandals, and look forward to working with a wide range of organisations as it launches.”

Would you find a rating scheme like this useful when making your next car purchase? Tell us in the comments below...

Martin Saarinen

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