What is the WLTP Test and Why Should You Care When Buying a New Car?
Published Date: 11th Mar 2023
WLTP Consumption and Emissions - What does WLTP mean?
WLTP stands for "Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure". It is a globally recognized test procedure used to measure the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of cars, as well as their pollutant emissions. The test is designed to provide more accurate and representative information about a car's real-world fuel economy and emissions than the previous testing method, the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The WLTP test was introduced in September 2017 and has gradually replaced the NEDC as the standard for measuring car emissions and fuel economy in many countries worldwide.
It is important for new car buyers to understand the WLTP test because it provides more realistic and accurate information about a car's fuel economy and emissions, which can help them make a more informed decision when choosing a new car. Before the WLTP test, car manufacturers used the NEDC test, which was developed in the 1980s and did not accurately reflect real-world driving conditions. The NEDC test had several flaws, including a lack of testing at higher speeds and under different driving conditions, which resulted in unrealistic fuel consumption and emissions figures.
The WLTP test is more comprehensive than the NEDC test, considering a wider range of driving conditions and situations. The test is divided into four driving cycles, each representing a different driving style: low, medium, high, and extra-high. The cycles include a range of different driving scenarios, such as urban driving, rural driving, and highway driving, as well as different speeds and acceleration rates. The test also takes into account the weight and aerodynamics of the vehicle, as well as any additional equipment, such as air conditioning, that may impact fuel consumption and emissions.
When buying a new car, it is important to pay attention to the WLTP figures, as they provide a more accurate indication of the car's fuel economy and emissions than the figures provided by the NEDC test. The WLTP figures are based on more realistic driving conditions, which means they are likely closer to the car's actual fuel consumption and emissions in real-world driving. This information can help buyers choose a car that is more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly, which can save them money on fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
In addition to the WLTP test, new car buyers should also pay attention to the CO2 emissions figure for the car they want. CO2 emissions are a major contributor to climate change, and reducing them is a key goal for many countries and organizations worldwide. The WLTP test provides a more accurate indication of a car's CO2 emissions than the NEDC test, meaning buyers can make more informed choices regarding reducing their carbon footprint.
Overall, the WLTP test is an important tool for new car buyers, providing more accurate and representative information about a car's fuel economy and emissions. By paying attention to the WLTP figures and CO2 emissions when choosing a new car, buyers can make more informed decisions that will save them money on fuel costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and help to protect the environment. When buying a new car, be sure to ask about the car's WLTP figures and CO2 emissions, and use this information to make the best possible choice for your needs and preferences.